Introduction & History

Oklahoma is the darkest of the dark red roses, a variety that pushes the boundaries of how much depth and intensity red petals can achieve. Bred by Herbert Swim and Ollie Weeks in 1964 from a cross of 'Chrysler Imperial' and 'Charles Mallerin', Oklahoma inherited the best qualities of two legendary dark reds and intensified them. The blooms are so deeply crimson that they appear almost black in certain light conditions, a quality that fascinates gardeners and photographers alike. The accompanying fragrance is equally powerful: a rich, heady damask perfume that ranks among the strongest in all rosedom. Oklahoma demands attention in the garden, standing as a brooding, magnificent presence that draws visitors inevitably to its deep, velvety blooms. For those who believe red roses should be , uncompromisingly red, Oklahoma delivers without reservation.

Breeding History

Bred by Herbert Swim and Ollie Weeks in California and introduced in 1964. The cross of 'Chrysler Imperial' and 'Charles Mallerin' combined two of the finest dark red genetics available. Chrysler Imperial contributed strong fragrance and vigorous growth, while Charles Mallerin provided the extraordinary depth of color. Oklahoma was named for the state and quickly gained a devoted following among dark rose enthusiasts. It has been a parent in subsequent dark red breeding programs. The variety received no major international awards but earned widespread recognition as one of the darkest, most richly scented red hybrid teas ever produced.

Flower Form & Fragrance

Large double blooms carry 40-55 petals in a cupped, globular form that opens from rounded buds. The color is an extraordinary dark blackish-crimson that appears to absorb light, deepening to near-black at the petal edges in cool weather. Blooms measure 12-14 cm across when fully open. The fragrance is powerful and intoxicating: a deep, classic damask rose scent with heavy sweet and spicy undertones that carries several meters in warm, still air. One of the most strongly scented roses in cultivation.

Garden Design & Uses

Oklahoma creates dramatic contrast when planted against silver-leaved companions like lamb's ear, artemisia, or white-flowering plants. Its dark blooms serve as anchoring focal points in mixed borders. Pair with pale pink roses like 'New Dawn' for a striking light-dark combination. Position near seating areas to enjoy the powerful fragrance. Avoid planting Oklahoma against dark backgrounds where its deep color will be lost. Best displayed where morning light can illuminate the complex dark tones within the petals.

Growth Habit & Hardiness

Upright, vigorous bush reaching 120-150 cm tall with a spread of 80-100 cm. Growth is strong with thick, sturdy canes that support the heavy blooms. Foliage is large, dark green, and leathery with a matte finish. Thorn density is high, with large, prominent prickles. The plant has a somewhat stiff, upright habit. New growth emerges with dark burgundy-red tints that complement the flower color. In hot climates, growth can be even more vigorous, reaching 180 cm.

Climate & Hardiness

Hardy in USDA zones 5b-9b. Oklahoma performs best in climates with warm days and cool nights, which intensify the dark coloring. Extreme heat above 35C causes blooms to open too quickly and may cause petal burn on the dark flowers. Cold hardiness is moderate with winter protection needed in zone 5. Rain tolerance is poor; the heavy, many-petaled blooms ball easily in wet weather. Best color development occurs in Mediterranean-type climates.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Planting & Container Growing

Plant in full sun with at least six hours of direct light, though some afternoon shade in hot climates prevents petal burn on the dark blooms. Prefers deep, rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-6.5. Generous incorporation of organic matter at planting supports the heavy feeding requirements. Space 80-100 cm apart. Plant bud union 5-8 cm deep in cold zones. Deep watering encourages the deep root system that this vigorous rose demands.

Container Growing

Possible in containers of 45 liters or more, though Oklahoma's vigorous root system prefers ground planting. Use rich, loam-based compost with added perlite and slow-release fertilizer. Water deeply and regularly as the heavy foliage transpires moisture quickly. Feed fortnightly during the growing season. Position where some afternoon shade prevents petal burn. Winter protection for the container is essential in cold zones. Feasibility rating: 5/10 due to strong vigor preferring open ground.

Seasonal Care & Pruning

Spring: Prune hard to 3-4 buds to promote strong basal growth and quality blooms. Apply generous amounts of well-rotted manure and balanced rose feed. Begin preventive spraying. Summer: Deadhead immediately after blooms fade, feed monthly with high-potash fertilizer, provide deep weekly watering, protect blooms from rain. Autumn: Stop feeding in September, clear fallen foliage, apply potash-rich autumn fertilizer to harden wood. Winter: Mound mulch 25-30 cm around the base, remove dead and crossing canes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1) Planting in full blazing sun in hot climates, which burns the dark petals and causes rapid bloom deterioration. 2) Not providing enough water and nutrients for this heavy feeder. 3) Leaving the plant unpruned, resulting in tall, spindly growth with fewer quality blooms. 4) Ignoring rain forecasts and not protecting open blooms that ball easily in wet weather. 5) Underestimating disease susceptibility and skipping preventive fungicide treatments.

Propagation

Propagated by T-budding onto vigorous rootstock such as R. multiflora or 'Dr. Huey' in summer. Budding success is good. Hardwood cuttings taken in late autumn root with moderate success (40-50%) and produce plants that may be less vigorous initially. Own-root plants develop good fragrance but may take an extra year to establish fully. Not grown from seed. Propagation difficulty: moderate. Budwood may be available from heritage rose nurseries.

Diseases & Pests

Oklahoma has moderate susceptibility to black spot and powdery mildew. Preventive fungicide treatment every 14 days is recommended in humid climates. The large, dark blooms attract Japanese beetles and rose chafers. Aphids may colonize new growth in spring. Spider mites can be problematic in hot, dry conditions. Thrips may mark the dark petals. The heavy, cupped bloom form can trap moisture, making botrytis a risk in wet weather. Maintain good air circulation and water at the base.

Cut Flowers & Exhibition

Cut when buds are just beginning to open, as the heavy blooms develop quickly in water. Best harvested in cool morning conditions. The dark color is stunning in arrangements with white or pale yellow roses. Recut stems at an angle underwater and use floral preservative. Vase life is 5-7 days. The powerful fragrance makes a single stem effective in a bud vase for scenting a room.

Collector & Exhibition Notes

Oklahoma is prized by collectors of dark roses and fragrance enthusiasts. In exhibitions, it competes well in the fragrance class and dark rose categories. The cupped form is less competitive in standard hybrid tea form classes. Heritage value: high as one of the darkest-ever hybrid teas. Collector interest: moderate to high, particularly among dark rose specialists. Available from specialist nurseries, though less commonly than in previous decades.

Comparison with Similar Roses

Compared to 'Chrysler Imperial' (its parent), Oklahoma is significantly darker and more strongly scented, but Chrysler Imperial has better form for exhibition. Against 'Mister Lincoln', Oklahoma is darker and more cupped, while Lincoln offers better disease resistance and more classic form. 'Black Magic' provides a modern alternative with better disease resistance and improved form, but Oklahoma surpasses it in both color depth and fragrance intensity.

Heritage & Conservation

Oklahoma is maintained in heritage rose collections as an important example of mid-twentieth century dark rose breeding. Its parentage from 'Chrysler Imperial' and 'Charles Mallerin' places it in a distinguished lineage of dark red roses. Still available from specialist nurseries, though less common than at its peak popularity. Its genetics continue to influence dark rose breeding programs seeking the deepest possible red coloring.

Cultural Significance

Oklahoma embodies the human fascination with dark roses, a quest that dates back centuries. Its near-black coloring connects it to gothic romanticism and the symbolic association of dark roses with deep passion and mystery. The variety has inspired rose breeders to continue pursuing the elusive black rose. Named for the US state of Oklahoma, it carries associations with the rugged beauty of the American heartland. The powerful fragrance has been used in artisanal perfumery.

Frequently Asked Questions