Piccolo Pete Shrub Rose
This rose is a bit leggy, but brilliant. These are April blooms.
Botanical Profile
The Piccolo Pete rose is a floribunda cultivar developed by Dr. Griffith Buck in 1984. It is a compact, free-branching shrub that typically reaches a mature height of 2 to 3 feet with a spread of 1.5 to 2 feet. The plant exhibits a moderate growth rate, averaging 12 to 24 inches per year.
Flower Characteristics
This rose produces clusters of ruby-red buds that open into flat blooms with 7 to 15 petals. The flowers are medium red in color and emit a moderate fragrance. Blooming occurs in flushes throughout the growing season, providing continuous visual interest.
Foliage and Growth
Piccolo Pete features dark, olive-green, leathery foliage that creates a striking backdrop for its vibrant blooms. The plant’s compact size and bushy habit make it suitable for small gardens and container planting.
Growing Conditions
For optimal growth, plant Piccolo Pete in early spring or fall, ensuring the graft union sits at soil level. It thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained, fertile soil. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods, and a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer applied in early spring and mid-summer will promote healthy growth.
Pruning and Maintenance
Prune in late winter to early spring to shape the plant and remove any dead wood. Deadheading spent blooms encourages continuous flowering. Regular monitoring for pests such as spider mites and aphids is recommended, with appropriate treatments applied as needed.
Propagation
Piccolo Pete can be propagated through cuttings and division. Cuttings should be taken during the growing season, while division is best performed in early spring or fall. Maintaining a temperature of around 70°F (21°C) and providing indirect sunlight will facilitate successful rooting.
Recognition
As of the latest available information, Piccolo Pete has not received formal recognition from major horticultural institutions such as Texas A&M’s Earth-Kind® program. However, its inclusion in specialty nurseries and appreciation among rose enthusiasts highlight its valued status in ornamental horticulture.
