Auguste Renoir is an interesting, and somewhat difficult, rose from the
Romantica series from Meilland. When it is good, it is gorgeous, but it
has a very strong tendency to open poorly, balling and developing
browned edges on the tightly packed petals. Often the blooms simply
turn into brown globs without ever opening.
The plant itself is a strong grower and it sets lots of buds. The
spring bloom never seems to open, but the mid-summer bloom is more
cooperative and pleasing. I am not sure what it needs to do well -
perhaps more consistent heat, plus more humidity than my desert climate
offers? I am not digging it out any time soon as maturity has seemed to
somewhat improve its performance, but despite its beauty when it is
good, at this time, I cannot recommend planting it.
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