Meet ‘Cancer’: The Miniature Rose with 10cm Blooms That Flowers Multiple Seasons
As autumn settles in and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to explore new additions to your garden. Today, we’re introducing a rose that might not be widely known yet but boasts remarkable qualities—the ‘Cancer’ miniature rose. If you love gardening or simply appreciate beautiful blooms, this is one variety you won’t want to miss.
Getting to Know the ‘Cancer’ Rose
Seasoned rose enthusiasts know that there are tens of thousands of rose varieties, most bred exclusively for ornamental purposes. Among them is the ‘Cancer’ rose (officially named Rose Terrazza Cancer), a relatively new cultivar that has been gaining attention for all the right reasons. Although it hasn’t been widely cultivated for long, those who have grown it can’t stop praising its performance and beauty.
Compact and Charming
Bred by the renowned Dutch company De Ruiter Innovations as part of their Zodiac Series, ‘Cancer’ is a true miniature rose. It stands at just about 50cm tall with a well-branched, compact, and rounded form that spans approximately 40cm in width. One of its most practical features? It’s nearly thornless, making it an ideal choice for family gardens or homes with children and pets. Even better, it thrives in containers as small as 15cm in diameter.
Big Blooms, Stunning Colors
Don’t let its small size fool you—the ‘Cancer’ rose produces impressively large flowers, each reaching up to 10cm in diameter. The blooms are lush, full, and elegantly shaped in a classic deep-cup form. Its color is a captivating shade of purple, leaning toward a deep magenta in cooler temperatures, giving it a noble and slightly mysterious allure. No photo truly does justice to its rich, velvety tones.
Adding to its charm is a gentle yet distinct fragrance—a fresh, classic rose scent that is neither overpowering nor too faint. It’s the kind of perfume that makes you want to lean in a little closer.
A Season-Long Performer
Bred with ornamental appeal in mind, ‘Cancer’ is a prolific bloomer. In temperate conditions, it flowers continuously from spring through fall. In warmer southern regions, it may even bloom sparingly during mild winters. For those in colder climates, simply moving the pot to a sunny indoor spot can encourage winter blooms.
What truly sets ‘Cancer’ apart from other miniature roses is its exceptional flower longevity. Blooms can last up to ten days in spring and fall, nearly a week in the heat of summer, and up to a full month during the winter—a rare trait that makes it a rewarding choice for any gardener.
Growing and Caring for Your ‘Cancer’ Rose
Robust and Low-Maintenance
Feedback from growers and personal experience confirm that ‘Cancer’ is one of the hardiest and most disease-resistant roses in the Zodiac Series. Its glossy, deep green foliage shows strong resilience against common pests and diseases, meaning less time spent on treatments and more time enjoying its beauty. It’s an excellent option for beginners.
Simple Care Guidelines
Potting & Soil: As a miniature rose, ‘Cancer’ doesn’t require much space. A 15cm pot is sufficient for balconies, though larger containers can be used if space allows. Use well-draining, nutrient-rich soil such as peat-based mixes or compost-enriched garden soil.
Ideal Environment: Like all roses, ‘Cancer’ loves sunlight and good air circulation. A south- or east-facing balcony, patio, or windowsill is ideal. If possible, outdoor planting is encouraged for stronger growth.
Watering & Feeding: Water only when the soil feels dry, then soak thoroughly. Fertilize lightly during spring and autumn with slow-release or liquid rose fertilizer. Avoid feeding in peak summer or winter.
Seasonal Care: Provide light shade during extreme summer heat to prevent scorching. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -5°C; in colder regions, provide frost protection or bring indoors.
Why You’ll Love It
Beyond its beauty and hardiness, ‘Cancer’ is a vigorous grower. It actively develops throughout spring, summer, and autumn, filling its space with lush greenery and stunning flowers. While its fragrance is mild rather than intense, this is a minor trade-off for a rose that offers so much in return. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, the ‘Cancer’ rose is a variety worthy of a spot in your collection.
