Black Baccara Rose
Rosa 'Black Baccara' (Meilland)
Height
80–100 cm
Flower size
9–11 cm
Bloom time
June – August (repeat)
Light
Light Partial Shade (for color depth)
Watering
Moderate
Hardiness
Zone 6 (up to -23°C)
Fragrance
Faint, fresh
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
- The closest color to black available (dark burgundy velvet)
- Perfect cut flower: lasts up to 14 days in a vase
- Compact bush with very few thorns
- Petals are rain-resistant and hold their shape well
Disadvantages
- Fades to dark red in direct, bright sun
- Almost no scent
- Requires preventive treatments for fungal diseases
- Average hardiness (needs good winter protection)
Use in Landscape Design
Primarily a cut flower for bouquets. In the garden, plant it in the foreground due to its height. It looks best in high-contrast compositions next to white or cream roses (like 'Pascali'), which emphasize its dramatic dark hue. Do not plant it far away — the dark color gets 'lost' at a distance.
Variety Description and Uniqueness
Black Baccara is a breakthrough by Meilland, still considered the 'blackest' rose on the market. The buds have a distinct black sheen. Upon opening, the flower becomes deep burgundy with a velvety petal texture that absorbs light, enhancing the black effect. The bush is elegant and upright with reddish-green foliage. A unique feature is the slow opening of the bud, which allows it to maintain its goblet shape for a long time.
Planting: The Secret to the Black Color
This is a unique case in rose growing. To get that mystical black sheen, Black Baccara SHOULD NOT be planted in full, scorching sun. Under direct rays, it 'burns out' and becomes simple dark red. Choose a spot with dappled shade, especially during midday. The second secret is soil acidity. In acidic soils (by adding peat), the color becomes darker and more saturated.
Watering and Care
Water only with warm, settled water at the base, avoiding the leaves. Schedule: 1 bucket per bush once a week. Always hoe the soil after watering. The variety responds well to mulching with pine bark — this not only retains moisture but also slightly acidifies the soil, benefiting the petal color.
Pruning (For Bouquets and Landscape)
Pruning strategy depends on your goal: 1. For cutting: Prune low in spring (leave 2-3 buds). This produces fewer shoots, but they will be powerful, long, and topped with single large flowers. 2. For flowerbeds: Prune higher (5-7 buds). The bush will be fuller with more flowers, though they will be smaller on shorter stems. Always deadhead in summer to trigger a second wave of blooms.
Winter Preparation
Black Baccara dislikes damp winters. The cover must be dry. Before frosts, remove all foliage and mound the base with dry soil (20-30 cm). Install a frame and cover with plastic or thick spunbond, but ensure air vents are left open until steady deep freezes (-10°C) to prevent rotting.
Diseases
Average immunity. In the second half of summer, especially in humid and cool weather, it may be affected by black spot. Preventive treatment with fungicides like 'Score' or 'Ridomil Gold' is recommended every 14 days starting in July.