Pierre Cardin

Where to plant. In fragrant borders, beside paths, benches and entrances — to be enjoyed for its complex scent; as a shrub rose for cutting for home bouquets; good in "fashionable" corners of the garden — a tribute to Cardin's fashion.

Climate. All of Ukraine with light winter cover (USDA 5b–6); copes well with summer heat.

Care. Full sun; a well-ventilated spot; high disease resistance — minimal prevention; feed 2–3 times per season; prune by ⅓ in spring.

Name. "Pierre Cardin" — after Pierre Cardin (Pietro Costante Cardin, 1922–2020) — a French fashion designer of Italian origin, one of the most important couturiers of the twentieth century. Cardin was known for his avant-garde and futuristic style: space-age costumes, geometric shapes, bubble skirts. His name became a symbol of bold modernity in fashion — Meilland chose it for a variety with a bold "starry" speckled palette.

Breeding. Bred at Meilland International (France). Code MEIlolipo. "MEIvanaba" is a common error in catalogues. Hybridising ~2003–2004, introduction 2008. Parentage not published (Meilland's usual practice). The variety is actively presented by Meilland as a "fragrant modern star".

Significance. A unique speckled "stardust" palette — a rarity among modern HTs (most are self-coloured). A very strong complex fragrance — a May-blooming old-rose scent with lemon and green notes; one of the most complex scent compositions among modern Meilland roses. Included in the RHS-listed collection — practical British recognition. High disease resistance — typical of modern Meilland roses (unlike the HTs of the 1960s–70s). No major official awards (AARS, ADR, RHS AGM), but wide commercial success and RHS recognition confirm its value.