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Why we like this plant
For gardeners craving something a bit different, ‘Hot Chocolate’ offers a bold twist on traditional rose colours. Its moody, russet blooms are a conversation starter, while the subtle fragrance and glossy foliage add garden appeal. It’s perfect for mixing with cream or pale pink plants, or planted solo to make a striking statement.
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About this plant
A captivating floribunda bush rose showcasing large, chocolate-red blooms that deepen to a rich mahogany at the centre. Each flower has a slight russet undertone and a subtle fruity fragrance. Blooming prolifically from early summer through to autumn, this rose forms a compact yet bushy habit adorned with glossy, dark-green foliage. Highly valued for its unique colour tones, it makes a dramatic focal point in any sunny border or container.
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Key features
- Unique chocolate‑red double blooms (8–10 cm across)
- Light fruity scent for added charm
- Repeat flowering from June to frost
- Glossy, disease‑resistant foliage
- Compact yet bushy habit ideal for borders
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Eventual height and
spreadHeight: 60–90 cm | Spread: 50–80 cm
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Growth
habitCompact, bushy and well-branched with glossy foliage that supports heavy flower production without flopping.
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Moisture
Moist but well‑drained
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Position in
the GardenThis rose thrives in full sun where it can be admired up close—ideally at the front of a border, on a sunlit patio, or in a decorative container near seating areas.
Planting guide
Select a full-sun location with fertile, well-drained soil. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic compost and ensure the rose is planted slightly deeper than in its container. Water well after planting and maintain consistent moisture during dry spells, especially in the first growing season.
Care tips
Feed in early spring and again after the first flush of blooms to support continued flowering. Remove faded flowers promptly to encourage further blooms, and watch for common pests such as aphids. Water deeply but infrequently to promote strong root development.
Winter care
Prune in late autumn to reduce height and remove dead or crossing canes. Apply a generous mulch layer around the base to protect roots during frosts. Fleece or rose collars can provide extra insulation in colder zones.