Rosa Hugonis–known colloquially as Father Hugo’s Rose–marks the unofficial beginning of rose season here at Elizabeth Park when it opens its first yellow blooms in early- to mid-May (this year the first blossom appeared May 8th). Located on the north fence of the Heritage Rose Garden, Father Hugo is surrounded by fragrant lilac blooms, lingering daffodils, and a host of heritage rose varieties. In May, Hugo’s large, bushy frame bursts in a flush of mild honey-scented blooms about 2 inches in diameter, each bearing 4-8 pale yellow petals.
Rose Season Begins: Father Hugo
Welcome to the first installment of A Rose a Week, a blog written by Head Gardener Peter Winne and dedicated to the roses of Elizabeth Park. What better way to mark the occasion than to start with the Park’s earliest bloomer?