The Soroptimist rose was developed in America by Frank Benardello and he agreed to send us 50 plants in time for the 75th Anniversary of Soroptimist International in October 1996.
There are strict regulations on importing plant material into the UK and the roses had to be “washed” and bundled according to regulations. Keith Jones then drove from Manchester to Heathrow to collect them, took cuttings to propagate more, and potted up the 50 roses in time for our Conference at Harrogate that year. We were able to present our SIGBI President, Hilary Page with a rose and each of the regions bought roses to present to their regional presidents.
Since then it has featured on the front cover of the European Soroptimist Journal and been purchased by many clubs all over the UK and Europe. Any profits from sales go direct to our club charities.
The rose is classed as a patio rose. It is pink and creamy yellow and has many flowers on each stem. It grows very well in containers and makes a great present for Soroptimist occasions. Perfect on the patio or balcony. Happy in a large pot or in the ground.
The cost bare-rooted is £16.45 and p/p £4.95, or £6.95 for two to four roses to same address.
A Soroptimist Rose in a pot is £19.95 and delivery is £10.50. Delivery of more roses in pots to the same address will be £3.50 each. Roses are extremely well packed for delivery.
Order from: Peggy Simson at pegsimson@gmail.com – telephone 01628 523386
All profits from the sale of the Soroptimist Rose go to SI Thames Valley’s charities: Kori Development Project and Wycombe Women’s Aid.