Veterans Honor and Olympiad

Veterans Honor and Olympiad are the two most important grandiflora of a deep classic red in Texas. The cup of Veteran’s Honor is a bit deeper, though Olympiad as a shrub may be slightly more full in branching and leafing.

This is a true red …. on an overcast afternoon.

Veterans’ Honor and Olympiad are two distinguished hybrid tea roses celebrated for their vibrant red blooms and commendable performance in various climates, including Texas.

Veterans’ Honor Rose

Jackson & Perkins Rose of the Year (2000): This accolade highlighted the rose’s outstanding characteristics, including its large, fragrant blooms and robust growth habit.
Commemorative Significance: Developed by Dr. Keith Zary, Veterans’ Honor was introduced as a tribute to U.S. military service members. A portion of its sales supported veterans’ healthcare initiatives, emphasizing its role beyond horticulture.

Olympiad Rose

All-America Rose Selections (AARS) Winner (1984): This award recognized Olympiad’s exceptional performance across diverse American climates, noting its vibrant red blooms and disease resistance.
Portland Gold Medal (1995): Awarded by the Portland Rose Society, this honor further acknowledged Olympiad’s superior qualities in bloom form and plant vigor.

Veterans’ Honor Rose

Description: A deep red hybrid tea rose known for its large, fragrant blooms and long stems, making it ideal for cutting gardens.Star®
Attributes:
- Blooms from late spring to early fall.
- Dark green foliage with good disease resistance.
- Grows approximately 5 feet tall with a 4-foot spread.
- Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
Recognition: While specific awards are not detailed, its popularity and performance have made it a favored choice among gardeners, particularly in Texas.

Olympiad Rose

Description: A striking hybrid tea rose featuring pure red blooms with a light fruity fragrance.
Attributes:
- Awarded the All-America Rose Selections (AARS) honor in 1984.
- Noted for its disease resistance and heat tolerance.
- Grows upright to about 3–5 feet tall.
- Ideal for cutting and bringing indoors.
Recognition: Beyond the AARS award, Olympiad has been honored multiple times in rose shows for its exceptional qualities. Star® Roses and Plants

Suitability in Texas

Both roses are well-suited for Texas gardens:

Veterans’ Honor: Its robust nature and disease resistance make it a reliable choice for Texas’s diverse climates.
Olympiad: Its heat tolerance and vibrant blooms have earned it praise among Texas gardeners, with successful growth reported in cities like Houston and Grapevine. Star®