Oklahoma Grandiflora

This is one of the most enticing roses to photograph.  The shrub is leggy and can be barren but the rose is virtually without equal.  I love, love, love this rose.

The ‘Oklahoma’ Grandiflora Rose, introduced in 1964 by Swim and Weeks, is known for its deep red, velvety blooms and exceptionally strong, classic rose fragrance. Though it has not won major awards like the AARS, it remains a favorite among rose enthusiasts for its scent and bold color.

Growing 4 to 6 feet tall, it thrives in full sun and blooms repeatedly from spring through fall. In Texas, it performs best in the drier conditions of Central Texas, while gardeners in East Texas must manage blackspot with regular spraying and good air circulation. Though not disease-resistant by modern standards, it is a prized variety in cut flower gardens and traditional rose landscapes.

Other Grandifloras to consider for Texas ‘Queen Elizabeth’ or ‘Wild Blue Yonder’?

Q1: Is ‘Oklahoma’ a good rose for Texas gardens?
A: Yes, especially in Central Texas; East Texas gardeners need to manage blackspot.

Q2: What sets this rose apart from others?
A: Its extremely strong fragrance and deep, dark red petals.

Q3: Does it have any awards?
A: No national AARS awards, but it’s considered a classic in American rose circles.

Q4: When does it bloom?
A: Spring through fall, in flushes, especially with regular deadheading.

Q5: What care does it require?
A: Full sun, good air circulation, and preventive fungal treatment in humid regions.