This is Rosa 66, a new hardy shrub rose developed by the University of Minnesota.
But it will get a new name this Friday, May 11, when it makes its official debut at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.
Last summer, the Arb invited to the public to submit names for the new rose. The winning entry will be announced at 10 a.m. Friday in the Visitor Center.
If you're a gardener who loves roses, you'll be eager to get your hands on Rosa 66, which boasts frilly pink blossoms with a light fragrance and blooms repeatedly throughout the season.
It's tough as well as pretty, surviving winter temperatures of down to 30 below in testing.
Even if you're not into roses, Friday is a good day to visit the Arb, which is offering free admission to all visitors, all day long, in observance of National Public Gardens Day, May 11.
In addition to the rose-naming event, there will be lots of family-friendly activities at the Arb that day, including games, giveaways, free guided walking tours at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., and guided tram tours (for a small fee) at 10:30 a.m., noon, 1:30 and 3 p.m. For more details, visit www.arboretum.umn.edu.
Do you grow roses? Do you have a favorite?
