Have you ever leaned in to smell a beautiful sprayrose, only to find it completely scentless? And then, just a few stems away, discover another variety with a rich, sweet perfume? You’re not imagining things as you know some sprayroses are fragrant, and some aren’t. But why? The answer lies in the delicate balance between genetics, breeding priorities, and flower science.
Let’s explore why not all sprayroses carry that signature rose scent — and why that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
Fragrance Is in the Genes
Fragrance in roses is a natural trait, controlled by complex genetic pathways. Some roses are naturally fragrant because their genes trigger the production of aromatic compounds.
However, when breeders develop new varieties, especially modern sprayroses, they have to make trade-offs. For example:
- Breeding for Colour or Vase Life might come at the cost of scent.
- Fragrance genes are often linked to traits like fragility or shorter vase life — things some growers try to avoid.
In short, fragrance can sometimes be bred out unintentionally while selecting for other qualities.
The Role of Rose Breeders
Sprayroses are developed with florists, designers, and consumers in mind. Breeders look for:
- Strong stems
- High petal count
- Uniform bloom size
- Longevity in vases and transit
- Unique colours or patterns
Fragrance is a bonus, but not always a priority. Why? Because scent can’t be seen in photos, and many buyers choose roses visually. It also fades faster than visual traits. So, unless a breeder is specifically focused on scent, it might be lower on the list.
That said, some breeders are working hard to bring fragrance back, combining modern form with timeless scent.
Why Some Sprayroses Still Smell Incredible
Thankfully, not all scent has been lost. Certain sprayrose varieties retain varying degrees of fragrance.
Fragrance can also be influenced by:
- Growing conditions (sunlight, temperature, soil)
- Stage of bloom (some scents develop more as the flower opens)
- Time of day (roses often smell strongest in the morning)
So even within a variety, the scent can shift slightly.
What This Means for Florists and Flower Lovers
If fragrance matters to you, here are a few tips:
- Ask your supplier which sprayrose varieties are known to have scent.
- Let roses breathe — the scent may become more noticeable as the blooms open.
- Combine scented and non-scented roses for the best of both worlds in arrangements.
- Use fragrance as a storytelling element in weddings or events — it adds a layer of memory and emotion.
In the end, it’s all about the bloom
While not all sprayroses are fragrant, each one brings its own beauty to the table, whether it’s a unique shape, stunning colour, or exceptional longevity. Fragrance is just one part of a rose’s personality. And in the World of Sprayroses, there’s room for every kind.
Want to discover our most fragrant sprayrose varieties?
Stay tuned for our upcoming spotlight on our scented favourites or message us to find your perfect match.
