Florist Guide to Rose Varieties with the Largest Head Size
What Counts as a Large Rose Head
Medium-large: about 10–12 cm (4–5 in) across
Very large: about 13–15 cm (5–6 in) across
Giant / exhibition size: 15 cm+ (6 in or more), sometimes much larger depending on variety and growing conditions
Large-flowered varieties are often hybrid teas, hybrid perpetuals, some grandifloras, and exhibition-bred roses.
Key Large-Head Varieties
Paul Neyron
Size: 6 in / 15 cm or more
Bloom traits: Very full, cupped and globular; strong fragrance; soft to medium pink
Plant habit: Upright shrub, fairly tall with broad spread, often with fewer thorns
Florist notes: Excellent for dramatic centerpieces. Heads are heavy, so stems may need support. Blooms fewer in number but exceptionally large.
Medallion (Hybrid Tea)
Size: 7–8 in / 17–20 cm
Bloom traits: Apricot to golden-apricot, old-fashioned bloom form, long pointed buds, fruity fragrance
Plant habit: Upright hybrid tea, long stems, dark foliage
Florist notes: One of the largest hybrid teas. Perfect focal flower, but petals bruise easily and vase life may be shorter once fully open.
Peter Mayle
Size: 4.5 in / 11–12 cm
Bloom traits: Deep pink, cupped form, strong old-rose fragrance
Plant habit: Upright, tall, strong stems suited for cutting
Florist notes: A balance between size and manageability. Still large, but easier to handle than the very largest varieties. Excellent colour and fragrance.
Other Notable Large-Bloom Roses
Many hybrid tea roses are bred specifically for large, high-centred blooms on long stems.
Old roses / hybrid perpetuals often produce giant blooms, such as Paul Neyron.
Grandifloras like ‘Queen Elizabeth’ can reach 4–5 in across, with long stems suitable for cutting.
Florist Tips for Working with Large-Head Roses
Stem strength: Choose varieties with sturdy stems to support heavy blooms.
Harvest stage: Cut at the coloured-bud stage so they open gracefully in the vase.
Vase life: Large, dense blooms can bruise or wilt faster; handle with extra care.
Arrangement spacing: Allow room in designs so blossoms aren’t crowded.
Fragrance and form: Match bloom shape and scent to the event’s mood or theme.
Conditioning: Re-cut stems, strip lower foliage, and keep them cool for longest life.
