One always hates to be proved wrong.  I really didn’t think that the Mini-flora rose classification would last let alone gain in popularity.  I didn’t think that I would become a fan. But, being a judge means you have to grow them to know them.  So I planted three Mini-flora roses--Butter Cream, Dr. John Dickman, and Camden.  After a year, I added five more Mini-flora roses and stopped being a skeptic. For those of you that are new to roses and don’t know what Mini-flora roses are, ARS defines them as "those roses whose leaf structure and leaf morphology and bloom structure are essentially smaller than a Floribunda but larger than the typical Miniature."  I find that the bush size is perfect for the front of the rose garden. When mixed with Miniature roses, the Mini-flora bush provides great color and visual interest.

I have become enamored with Camden.  This Mini-flora rose is in the Mauve color class but in my garden is a bright fuchsia.  The color is intense and very eye-catching.  The blooms open a little fast, but the color holds well and only begins to fade when temperatures are extremely hot.  The bush is tall, vigorous, and beautiful.  Foliage is very important to me and this rose doesn’t disappoint.  The leaves are a glossy, dark green that serve as a wonderful frame for the bright fuchsia blooms. . The bush is disease resistant in my garden, has a nice upright growth pattern, is quick to repeat and did I mention, the color is fabulous.  Because it is a Mini-flora, the blooms are large; however the blooms and plant size are in perfect proportion.

Camden is a rose that has something for everyone.  If you are just looking for a good garden rose, it is a great choice.  If you are looking to exhibit, it can do that for you as well.  Blooms are produced one per stem and the blooms do have exhibition form.  Camden has won many ribbons and been on trophy tables across the country. I’ve enjoyed the rose so much that I gave it my greatest honor--I bought a second one.