Size of a Rose Stem

Florist Roses

• Florist roses are marketed through traditional flower shops, grocery stores and online outlets. Specially bred florist roses are increasingly grown in Central and South America in greenhouses at elevations of 8,000 feet above sea level. Ideal growing conditions provide long days, high sunlight levels and optimal temperatures. Cut roses are delivered in as little as three days to local florist shops thanks to modern transportation. The stems are as thick, straight and nearly as sturdy as pencils on these carefully bred and cultivated roses. The roses are priced according to stem length. Stem lengths range from 15.5 inches for medium length, to 27.5 inches for the most expensive extra long.

Structure of a Rose Bush

• The trunk is the main stem of the rose. This main stem grows up from the root or, in the case of a grafted plant, the bud union. Side stems grow from the trunk. Thick stems called canes are the structural “bones” of the rose bush. Several canes form and grow out from the base, creating a shrub. The canes and side stems end in a bud, called a terminal. Terminals form at the ends of long, thick canes and short, weak stems alike.

Climbing Roses

• Climbing roses range in length of stems from 6 feet for the shorter climbers to as much as 30 feet in vigorous growers. The main stems, or canes reach these lengths. Lateral stems as short as 2 inches form along each supporting cane. A long climbing rose cane covered with lateral flowering stems creates a dramatic impact in the garden. Long canes sometimes produce few lateral stems, resulting in an “octopus” appearance, with long, leaf-covered canes ending in a cluster or spray of blossoms at its end. Selective pruning and training encourage the production of lateral blooming stems.

Garden Roses

• Hybrid tea and some shrub roses produce a single rose at the end of a long stem. The length and thickness of the stems vary according to cultivar and growing conditions. Stems ending in a single flower reach as long as 5 or 6 feet in climates with long growing seasons, but 2 to 4 feet is more usual. Floribunda and some shrub roses produce clusters of flowers at the ends of canes. Each individual flower has its own short, narrow stem. Cut the cane supporting the flower cluster for an instant flower arrangement. Miniature roses produce small, perfectly formed roses on sturdy stems relative to their size. Flowers are borne singly or in clusters, depending on the cultivar.