If there was a such thing as a rose representing the story of The Tortoise and the Hare, that would be Lemon Spice. What can I say about this which has not already been said? First off, let's just say One Of A Kind Fragrance!. There's no other rose I've ever sniffed which has this delicious of a fragrance. It somehow transports me to places in my imagination, somewhere between Wonkaland, and a Citrus orchard in bloom. Sweet like bit o honey candy, spicy like an iced holiday cookie, yet powerful like jasmine and lemon flowers combined. That's just the tip of the iceberg for this little charmer.
The growth is slow and steady (Tortoise), so don't expect it to compete in a day at the racetrack. Patience is truly needed with this slow starter. Reminds me of a few others, and definitely like parent Signora. Once it takes off after three years of pampering it, then watch out! As long as you give it plenty of space, light, and nutritious soil, then it will begin. I've learned never to give up on them, because right about the time you're ready to throw in the towel, they begin to flourish and stun with the elements you get them for in the first place.
The overall growth seems to be incredibly restrained and optimal for those who have very limited spaces or want to grow on a patio rather than in-ground. However, that said, I planted mine directly into the ground in an area where I have hopes of it achieving it's maximum height, but at my own risk of course. It seems to be steady at about 18-22in. height at the moment, but I'm seeing that the canes don't age out fast, and the hopes of it being able to train as a tall shrub might be workable in the future with some coaxing. However, it may not be ideal for a cold climate where dieback will be eminent. This would surely need to be best grown in a place with no more than a small amount of intermittent chill. I would probably guess that it's best in Zone 8b or higher, just so that it won't suffer any dieback to give it the height it needs for it's sluggish growth.
That all being said, when it blooms, it will throw at random, and therefore seems like it doesn't go too long without at least one flower on the bush. It's probably not going to be a showstopper for it's size and appearance, but the fragrance is more than worth the lack of numbers.
Disease Resistance is iron clad, as far as I am concerned. Zero Spray and compost tea is the standard for all my roses. I've never seen any kind of disease on LS, where our annual rainfall is 120in. (there's at least one good rain every week), and average humidity steadily hovers around 60%. Many other roses succumb to this kind of environment. LS absolutely Thrives!
Lastly, the coloration of the flower is very nice. In full sun, it doesn't bleach out the yellow nearly as much as many other HT's like Eternal Flame, Midas Touch, Sunsprite, Golden Showers, and Michelangelo. It seems to be solid Buttery-to-Banana Yellow, with those unmistakable peach cheeks that truly set it's coloration apart and makes the plant set a signature look with the unique medium (tea sized) flowers.
I have yet to find any rose that could possibly even come close to filling the shoes of this MUST HAVE for me. HIGHLY recommend Lemon Spice.
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