Junie May

Shrub (Dr. Suni Bolar, United States, 2019)

Junie May bears sprays of stunning 3″ medium pink fragrant blooms with a traditional florist or exhibition shape.  Blooms are sweetly fragrant and make a lovely contrast to this vigorous shrub’s dark green foliage.  The foliage is extremely disease resistant to black spot and mildew and makes it an excellent performer in a no-spray gardens.  Junie May tends to grow a little wider than tall with a rounded habit and is a strong bloomer with a quick repeat bloom cycle. Deadheading spent blooms will hasten the repeat bloom cycle. A perfect choice in a cottage style garden with mixed plantings.

From the Breeder – Junie May is named in honor of the breeder’s friend June Benardella; a lovely lady whose kindness, warmth and generosity has touched many in the rose world. Most people know June as the world famous rose breeder Frank Benardella’s wife. Junie May was Frank’s nickname for June. She hosted many events in their beautiful rose garden and worked relentlessly to promote the love for our National flower. June was an active member of the Jersey Shore Rose Society holding several board positions for many decades. In addition to roses, June also grew other perennials in a classic cottage garden.

Learn more about the breeder: Meet the Breeder – Dr. Suni Bolar