Miniature roses trace their origins back to China, where small rose varieties were cultivated as early as the 18th century. These diminutive roses were prized for their compact size and delicate blooms, and they were often displayed in imperial gardens.
They became popular in Europe in the early 19th century, especially in France and England. Breeders sought to cultivate roses that would bloom continuously and remain small enough for indoor pots and small gardens, which were becoming fashionable.
In the late 19th century, a variety of wild dwarf roses, Rosa chinensis minima, was rediscovered in China and introduced to European breeders. These tiny roses played a key role in the development of modern miniature roses.
During the 20th century, breeders began crossbreeding wild dwarf roses with modern hybrid tea roses, resulting in a variety of miniature roses with diverse colors, shapes, and bloom patterns.
This selective breeding enhanced their disease resistance and blooming frequency and their small size and low maintenance made them a favorite for container gardening and indoor arrangements.
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About The Author
John Bagnasco has been in the gardening industry for over 50 years, starting with a horticulture degree from Michigan State University and following a stint at Frank’s Nursery and Crafts in Detroit.
After publishing his first book “Plants for the Home Vol. I” in 1976, he moved to California to become regional manager and buyer for the Nurseryland division of Sunbelt Nursery Group.
He then became the head buyer for Armstrong Garden Centers based in Glendora, California. John had a part-time affiliation with Creative Promotions for ten years before joining them full-time in October 2000 as a senior editor and radio personality for Garden Compass.
John has also taught horticulture classes at Palomar College and San Diego State University.
He is the host of the DVD “The Essential Guide to Roses,” which also features Bryan Main and Bruce and Sharon Asakawa.
His most recent book is “Planting Designs for Cacti and Succulents”.
Currently, John is a co-host on “Garden America,” an interactive live gardening show that additionally provides podcasts of the broadcasts accessible on all major platforms.
You can contact John here.