Over a millennium ago, the mere mention of Vikings landing would send people into a state of alert. Today, when you hear of Vikings arriving, it’s a herald of beauty and joy through Scandinavian design,” remarks John Pouw of Viking Roses. “After some initial successes, the floral art and design division in Denmark is now on the brink of a significant breakthrough under the guidance of Creative Director ‘Ruthless Rosa.’ Her innovative creations are making their way into the hands of renowned industry producers and are soon to grace the homes that appreciate the essence of artistic Scandinavian design,” he continues.
“One glance, one fragrance, and the era of plastic flowers becomes a relic of the past,” says Rosa. “Vikings can be cultivated with a minimal environmental footprint while delivering maximum satisfaction.”
As a pioneering environmentalist, over a quarter-century ago, she and her partner ‘Thirsty Harley’ assumed the stewardship of a fellow Danish breeder renowned for disease-resistant varieties. Consequently, her subsequent generations of Forever® and Infinity® potted roses, Plant’n Relax® garden roses, and subsequently, the Viking cut roses, have maintained an impeccable record of 100% disease resistance. However, trials conducted at higher altitudes revealed that many of the initial-generation Vikings tended to lose some of their length, Pouw explains. “In response, some of the resistance was strategically traded for the introduction of distinct bloodlines in the breeding process, yielding both heightened length and vibrant colors in the large-flowered garden varieties.”
Years of rigorous selection have culminated in the present wave of robust, disease-resistant premium garden sprays, presented and sold in bunches of three stems. Additionally, the introduction of the first standards has made its mark. Kenyan farms have been at the forefront, followed by Ecuadorian counterparts in controlled plantings destined for discerning international florists.