Rosa ‘Sun Flare’ is a floribunda rose that was introduced into United States market by Jackson & Perkins in 1981. It is also known as the JACjem rose. This cultivar is a result of a cross between the ‘Amber Queen’ and the ‘Sutter’s Gold’ roses. It was bred by William Warriner 1979.
Sun Flare rose plant is a short bushy shrub about 3 to 4 ft tall. The blooms of ‘Sun Flare’ are large and double with pointed buds that open up to reveal a high-centered bloom. The petals are thick and velvety, with a lemon-yellow color. The flowers have a mild licorice fragrance and bloom intermittently in flushes throughout the growing season.
Sun Flare rose is hardy in USDA zones 6-10, which means that it can tolerate winter temperatures as low as -10 to 0 degrees Fahrenheit. In zones 6 and 7, the rose may experience some dieback during particularly harsh winters, but it should bounce back in the spring. In zones 8-10, where winter temperatures rarely drop below freezing, the rose should thrive with proper care.
The rose won a gold medal in Japan in 1981, Portland in 1982 and was named an All-America Rose Selections winner in 1983.
Facts About Sun Flare Rose
Facts and Data
| Scientific Name | Rosa ‘Sun Flare’ |
| Type of Rose | Floribunda Rose |
| Origin | United States |
| Year of Breeding | 1979 |
| Year of Introduction | 1981 |
| Breeder | William Warriner |
| Size | 3 to 4 ft |
| Foliage | Glossy, dark green |
| USDA Zones | 6-10 |
| Marketing Names | ‘Sunflare’, ‘Sun Flare’ or ‘JACjem |
| Awards | Gold medals in Japan (1981) and All-America Rose Selections winner in 1983. |
How to grow and care for Sun Flare Rose
Planting:
- Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Roses generally prefer at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Plant the rose in a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
- Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent diseases.
Soil:
- Provide well-draining soil enriched with organic matter.
- Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (around 6.0-7.0).
Watering:
- Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season.
- Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilizing:
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced rose fertilizer.
- Follow package instructions for application rates and frequency.
- Consider additional applications during the growing season if needed.
Pruning:
- Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Remove dead or diseased wood and shape the plant to maintain a balanced form.
- Regularly deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering.
Disease Control:
- Sun Flare Roses are generally disease-resistant, but it’s important to monitor for common rose diseases.
- Provide adequate spacing for good air circulation.
- If necessary, apply fungicides preventively, especially in humid conditions.
Pests:
- Monitor for pests like aphids, thrips, or spider mites.
- Treat pest issues promptly using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Support:
- Hybrid tea roses like Sun Flare may benefit from support, especially if they produce large blooms.
- Use stakes or other support structures to prevent bending or breakage in strong winds.
Winter Care:
- Mulch around the base of the rose to protect the roots from freezing temperatures.
- Consider additional winter protection, especially in colder climates.
Regular Inspection:
- Regularly inspect the Sun Flare Rose for signs of stress, disease, or pests.
- Early detection allows for timely intervention and better plant health.