Petal Pals
shrub · 1985
Alexander MacKenzie
Rosa 'Alexander MacKenzie'
6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters)
Height
Repeat
Blooming
Full sun
Light
3–9
Zone
Plant & Flower Traits
Rose type
shrub
Bloom size
3 inches (7-10 cm)
Bloom habit
Double, globular to pompon blooms borne in large clusters of 6-12.
Petal count
40-50 petals
Flowering
repeat blooming
Habit
upright
Color
red
Fragrance
moderate
Foliage
Dark green; new growth is often tinted with red.
Foliage surface
Glossy and smooth with a waxy texture.
Fragrance Notes
Distinctly fruity with raspberry notes.
Color Description
Deep raspberry-red to bright crimson blooms with yellow undertones, often appearing in clusters.
🌱 Growth & Garden Habits
Light
Full sun
Height
6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters)
Spread
5-8 feet (1.5-2.5 meters)
Soil
Nutritious, fertile, slightly acidic, and well-drained soil; tolerates a variety of soil types including clay and loam.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 3–9
Disease Resistance
Excellent; specifically bred for high disease resistance in cold climates.
🌿 Care Guide
Watering
Moderate; requires regular watering during dry spells, approximately twice a week.
Fertilizer
Balanced fertilizer, such as a 6-18-18 rose food, applied according to manufacturer instructions starting in the third year.
Pruning
Minimal; remove dead wood in early spring and deadhead spent blooms to encourage reblooming.
Pests & Diseases
Highly resistant to blackspot, powdery mildew, and rust; resistant to deer.
🧬 Pedigree
'Queen Elizabeth' × ('Red Dawn' × 'Suzanne')
🏆 Awards & Recognition
None officially listed, but recognized for outstanding hardiness and performance in Northern climates.