The 'Marylou Whitney' rose, hybridized by Brad Jalbert, is a fragrant, elegant, and feminine classic long-stem, befitting its namesake.  This hybrid tea has glossy foliage, and is mildew resistant; in wet coastal climates, it will benefit from treatment to minimize black spot. This rose looks like a classic florist cutting rose, but it has a powerful damask scent.

The rose is in extremely short supply: all spring plants will be delivered to Ms Whitney herself; more will be available for purchase in autumn of 2011 from Select Roses (we're sorry, but we do not mail-order roses). Dehn's Flowers & Greenhouses, Inc. will be producing some 'Marylou Whitney' roses for the Saratoga, NY market.

A rose garden honoring Marylou Whitney will be created in Congress Park near the entrance where the philanthropist and horse owner enters the Canfield Casino for her annual black-tie gala celebrating the Whitney Handicap at Saratoga Race Course. The garden will feature the long-stem rose named in her honor, an 85th birthday gift from her husband. The new garden—including the rose bushes, the planting and nurturing process, and an identifying brass plaque—are being donated to the city by Whitney’s friends.

"Marylou is a wonderful person who cares deeply for our community. Planting the Marylou Whitney rose that will flourish for many years to come is only one small way in which we can honor and thank her for all she has done for the city and its residents," said Saratoga Public Works Commissioner, Skip Scirocco.

In honour of his wife, the Saratoga, New York socialite and philanthropist, Mr. John Hendrickson commissioned the naming of the 'Marylou Whitney' rose, paying particular attention to the type of rose that should carry her name. One of Hendrickson’s priorities was for the rose to have a strong fragrance, and it does. He added, "Like Marylou, the rose is beautiful, delicate and so full of life. I am pleased that others may want to enjoy this rose in their gardens. In 200 years, people will still be enjoying the beauty of the Marylou Whitney Rose. Together, they are timeless."