HybridContainer OK

Mr. Lincoln

Rosa 'Mister Lincoln'

The quintessential red rose that has captured hearts since 1964 with its deep velvety crimson blooms and intoxicating fragrance. This classic hybrid tea rose produces long-stemmed flowers perfect for cutting, embodying everything people dream of when they think of the perfect red rose.

Sun

Full sun

☀️

Zones

5–9

USDA hardiness

🗺️

Height

3-6 feet

📏

Planting Timeline

Zone:

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Transplant

Showing dates for Mr. Lincoln in USDA Zone 7

All Zone 7 rose →

Zone Map

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Mr. Lincoln · Zones 5–9

What grows well in Zone 7? →

Growing Details

Difficulty

Moderate

Spacing3-4 feet

SoilRich, well-drained loam with plenty of organic matter

pH6.0-6.8

Water1-1.5 inches per week, consistent moisture

SeasonPerennial, blooms late spring through fall

FlavorN/A - Ornamental use only

ColorDeep velvety dark red

Size4-5 inch blooms

Zone-by-Zone Planting Calendar

Zone	Indoor Start	Transplant	Direct Sow	Harvest
Zone 5	—	May – July	—	—
Zone 6	—	May – July	—	—
Zone 7	—	May – June	—	—
Zone 8	—	April – June	—	—
Zone 9	—	March – May	—	—

Complete Growing Guide

Light: Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day). Soil: Clay, High Organic Matter, Loam (Silt), Sand. Soil pH: Acid (<6.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0). Drainage: Good Drainage, Moist. Height: 3 ft. 0 in. - 6 ft. 0 in.. Spread: 2 ft. 0 in. - 3 ft. 0 in.. Spacing: 3 feet-6 feet. Growth rate: Rapid. Maintenance: Medium. Propagation: Stem Cutting. Regions: Coastal, Mountains, Piedmont.

Harvesting

Insignificant

Bloom time: Fall, Summer

Storage & Preservation

Fresh-cut Mr. Lincoln roses last 7-10 days in a vase when properly conditioned. Re-cut stems under running water at a sharp angle, removing any foliage below the waterline. Use cool water mixed with commercial flower food or a homemade solution of 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon bleach, and 2 teaspoons lemon juice per quart.

For drying, harvest roses just before peak bloom and hang upside down in a dark, dry, well-ventilated area. Mr. Lincoln's deep red color preserves beautifully, though it may darken slightly. Petals can be dried separately for potpourri by spreading on screens for 2-3 weeks.

Rose hips can be harvested after first frost for jellies and teas, though hybrid tea varieties like Mr. Lincoln produce fewer hips than species roses. Store fresh arrangements in a cool room away from direct sunlight and heat sources to maximize longevity.

History & Origin

Origin: United States

Advantages

+Disease resistance: Heat, Urban Conditions
+Attracts: Attractive Flowers, Attracts Pollinators, Colorful, Fragrance, Textural
+Wildlife value: Attracts butterflies and bees.
+Fast-growing

Companion Plants

Plant Together

Lavender

Repels aphids, spider mites, and other pests while attracting beneficial pollinators

Marigold

Deters nematodes, aphids, and whiteflies with strong scent compounds

Garlic

Natural fungicide properties help prevent black spot and powdery mildew

Catmint

Repels aphids, ants, and rodents while attracting beneficial insects

Allium

Strong sulfur compounds deter aphids, thrips, and Japanese beetles

Parsley

Attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies that prey on rose pests

Clematis

Provides complementary blooming periods and shares similar soil preferences

Chives

Prevents aphid infestations and may enhance rose fragrance

Keep Apart

Black Walnut

Produces juglone toxin that causes wilting and stunted growth in roses

Eucalyptus

Allelopathic compounds inhibit root development and nutrient uptake

Large Trees

Compete for nutrients and water while creating excessive shade for sun-loving roses

Pests & Disease Resistance

Resistance

Moderate resistance, benefits from preventive fungicide program

Common Pests

Aphids, thrips, spider mites, Japanese beetles, rose chafer

Diseases

Black spot, powdery mildew, downy mildew, canker, rust

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Mr. Lincoln rose take to establish and start blooming?▼

Mr. Lincoln roses typically establish within their first growing season and begin blooming 8-10 weeks after spring planting. Bare root plants may take slightly longer than container plants to produce their first flush of flowers. Full establishment with mature-sized blooms usually occurs by the second year, with peak performance reached in years 3-5.

Can you grow Mr. Lincoln roses in containers?▼

Yes, Mr. Lincoln can thrive in large containers (minimum 20 gallons) with excellent drainage. Use a high-quality potting mix amended with compost and ensure the container has multiple drainage holes. Container plants require more frequent watering and feeding than garden plants, and may need winter protection in cold climates since roots are more exposed to temperature fluctuations.

Is Mr. Lincoln rose good for beginners?▼

Mr. Lincoln is moderately challenging and better suited for gardeners with some rose-growing experience. While it's vigorous and forgiving of minor mistakes, it requires regular maintenance including pruning, feeding, and disease prevention. Beginners should be prepared to learn proper watering techniques and implement a fungicide program in humid climates.

When should I plant Mr. Lincoln roses?▼

Plant bare root Mr. Lincoln roses in early spring, 4-6 weeks before your last frost date when soil can be worked. Container plants can be planted after the last frost through early fall. In mild winter areas (zones 8-9), fall planting allows roots to establish before spring growth. Avoid planting during summer heat stress periods.

How big does Mr. Lincoln rose get?▼

Mr. Lincoln typically grows 5-6 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide at maturity. In ideal conditions with regular feeding and pruning, it can reach up to 8 feet tall. The vigorous, upright growth habit makes it excellent for back borders or as a specimen plant. Annual pruning helps maintain size and shape while encouraging abundant flowering.

Does Mr. Lincoln rose need full sun?▼

Yes, Mr. Lincoln requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering. Morning sun is particularly important for drying dew from leaves, which helps prevent fungal diseases. In extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial, but insufficient light will result in weak growth, fewer blooms, and increased disease susceptibility.