"Size.--Large. Average open diameter is 51/2 inches."
It is larger than 2.75". I don't know about 5.5", even in my area. From subjective experience, it was "slightly smaller scale than Brandy, but still large."
It was an intended improvement of Brandy, and it was, even with its own caveats. Better habit, more petals, a little less die-back. But definitely not 2.75" blooms.
Lucille Ball was available at Palatine Roses this year - although it is sold out now. I ordered one and can't wait to grow it again. I grew it the year before it was widely available and it was one of my favorites. I had to abandon Lucy and all my other roses in 1998 when I moved to a new house. Hopefully I'll get a good plant and will report back in June after the first bloom.
Since I spray regularly every 10 to 14 days I don't think I'll have a blackspot issue with Lucy. A long time ago in a place far away I won a Virgin Queen award with Lucy (best rose by an exhibitor who has never won a Queen) so I am quite familiar with her foibles. My main concern is getting a good plant.
Hi, I don't know if this is an error or not but the description reads thornless (or almost) and several of the comments mention that it is very thorny. I realize these are"qualitative" judgements but they seem at both ends of the extremes. Have never seen it personally so don't know. Would appreciate a consensus one way or the other. Thanks, Jim
