Red Velvet

Where to plant. First and foremost a cut florist's HT — bred for greenhouses and floristry; the leader for classic red bouquets (weddings, Valentine's, romantic arrangements). But it also grows well in the garden: in the Forest-Steppe and Steppe — outdoors or with light protection, further north — with full protection. A sunny spot and fertile soil.

Climate. USDA 6b+. Bred for greenhouses, but it also overwinters outdoors: in the Forest-Steppe/Steppe with light protection, further north with full protection. Winter hardiness is moderate; after a snowless winter, especially back-to-back ones, dieback is possible.

Care. In greenhouses — control of light and temperature; good vase life.

Name. 'Red Velvet' = 'red velvet' — for the velvety texture of the petals. A classic marketing name that highlights the variety's textural feature: the petals look like velvet in sunlight.

Breeding. Bred by Hans Jürgen Evers at Rosen Tantau (Uetersen, Germany) — the same breeder as Polo (1997). Code TANorelav. Bred by 1992, introduced 1994. Parentage not disclosed. A common myth in catalogues: it is sometimes credited to De Ruiter — this is wrong; the true breeder is Tantau, 1994.

Significance. One of the top red cut roses of the 1990s–2000s; per the HMF description — 'currently probably the best florist red worldwide' (at the time). The velvety petal texture is a distinctive feature, valued by florists. Very dark, dense foliage — a good contrast. The Tantau series of dark red cut roses: Red Velvet – Piano (2007) – Royal Piano. No major official awards (AARS, ADR not awarded for cut roses). Today it is gradually being replaced by Red Naomi! (Schreurs 2006), but Red Velvet remains a classic alternative in floristry.