John F. Kennedy Bare Root Rose Bush
Rosa ‘BOEgif’ John F. Kennedy
John F. Kennedy is a striking hybrid tea rose introduced in the United States by Jackson & Perkins in 1965 to honor the 35th President. Bred by famed hybridizer Eugene Boerner, this variety is celebrated for its large, high-centered blooms of crisp white, often with a soft green tint in bud. With strong disease resistance, a clean upright habit, and a light licorice fragrance, John F. Kennedy remains a timeless choice for formal beds, memorial gardens, and cutting displays.
💐 Plant & Flower Traits
🌹 Rose Type: Hybrid Tea
🧬 Breeder: Eugene S. Boerner (USA, 1964 – for Jackson & Perkins)
🎨 Color: Pure white
🌸 Petal Count: 45–50
💠 Bloom Form: High-centered, fully double
📏 Bloom Size: 5–6″
🔁 Flowering: Repeat bloomer from late spring through fall
🏺 Vase Life: Excellent – long stems and strong form
🧴 Fragrance: Moderate – sweet with a hint of licorice
🏡 Growth & Garden Habits
🌿 Growth Type: Upright, vigorous
☀️ Light Requirements: Full sun
❄️ Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 6–10 (Zone 5 requires winter protection of the bud union)
📐 Spacing: 2–3′
↕️ Height: 3–5′
↔️ Width: 2–4′
🛡️ Health & Suitability
🌱 Root Stock: Budded onto Dr. Huey
💪 Disease Resistance: Very good – mildew and black spot tolerant - best in dry climates
🌎 Regional Recommendations:
West Coast, Pacific Northwest, Southwest, Midwest, Intermountain West
🏅 Awards: All-America Rose Selection (1965)
