"It is an ideal rose for bridal work, floral designers, and upscale boutiques seeking timeless refinement with a modern twist", says Alessandro Ghione of NIPR International when talking about their new rose variety Shabby Chic. It is a mutation of the breeder's 'Vintage' variety and is grown by Ivan Freeman of Uhuru Flowers in Timau, Kenya. Feedback so far has been positive in different markets and plans for expanding the growing acreage are already underway.
Ivan Freeman between Shabby Chic
Shabby Chic
According to Ghione, the rose features soft champagne-green petals edged with delicate cherry pink, creating a gentle, watercolor-like contrast. "The coloration evokes a quiet elegance, less polished, more personal. It's a bloom that feels both timeless and contemporary, echoing the charm of the shabby chic style for which it's named."
And of course, the rose's performance, both in production and in the vase, is just as important as its color. "We have selected and tested this variety over five years. The result is a rose with a compact, well-formed bud, excellent vase life, and a strong, productive plant behind it—making it well-suited for premium cut flower markets."
Positive feedback
Freeman, the grower behind the introduction of Shabby Chic, shared a bit more about the decision to cultivate this variety: "We felt this specific color combination was missing in our assortment. It's a very elegant rose, something soft but still distinct."
Currently, the variety is planted on a small scale, 0.125 hectares, as the team tests its performance in the market and builds up budwood for future propagation. Despite being in early production, the rose has already made its way to a wide range of markets across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. "The initial feedback has been very positive," Ivan says. "We've shipped small quantities so far, and floral designers seem excited about it. There's a growing interest."
Expansion in the pipeline
Given the strong early reception, Freeman is already considering expansion. "We would like to increase the area," Ivan confirms. "We're seeing potential, and we believe 'Shabby Chic' has a long-term place in the premium rose segment."
For more information:
NIRP
Alessandro Ghione
Email: [email protected]
www.nirpinternational.com
Uhuru Flowers Ltd
Ivan Freeman
Email: [email protected]
www.uhuruflowers.com