Few floral creations can measure up to the drama and sheer elegance of a rose tree garden. Also known as rose standards, these cultured little rose trees are the result of delicate grafting and painstaking care to design a miniature tree with a full diadem of roses.Rose trees can be found from three- to 60-feet tall, each more majestic than the last. With their long, thin stems supporting a full canopy of roses on top, the effect is often breathtaking.  You may be wondering how florists create such a work of art from flowers that start out with no resemblance to the rose tree.

A rose tree is the result of grafting portions of three rose plants together. The slender, graceful trunk is dissected from a single rose plant; the root structure is grafted to the bottom of the trunk, and the collection of roses is grafted to the top. Out of three separate plants, these floral artisans produce a stunning rose tree. Horticulturists can choose to include just one, or two, or three colors of roses in the crown.

Many rose handlers enjoy grafting the double-decker rose tree, in which a second crown of blooms is placed atop the first crown. The effect is high elegance, especially when florists choose to give the tree a cascade or weeping appearance.  The result is elegant, supremely beautiful, but somewhat demanding on the delicate stem or trunk. The stem of the rose tree is always staked to reinforce its support capabilities, and to provide a barrier from the scorching summer sun and the frigid cold winter.

The beautiful rose tree is a favorite centerpiece at the most luxurious weddings and other high society events. They also grace the formal gardens of some of the world's most elite homes.  Landscapers often combine several rose trees in a garden to create the ultimate cultured and cultivated look. Artisans can create spectacular displays using one solid color rose, or they can combine colors and patterns for an entirely different effect. Single-toppers can be staged with double-toppers, or they can use all one size, and whether the décor displays just one rose tree or dozens, the look is spectacular.

Pruning is everything when it comes to keeping a rose tree looking spectacular.    The grower can determine the shape and style of the rose tree canopy as they carry out the pruning. Pruning is limited only to the floral top of the tree, never the cane, and is important to keep the rose tree disease-free and keep the weight on the slender stem balanced.  The cane needs to be cared for properly to safeguard from those predators that target rose plants.

In the coldest weather, it is best to move your rose tree indoors, if it is in a pot, to keep it safe from freezing.  If your rose tree must remain outside, wrap the stem and topsoil in mulch for protection.

Possibly the most demanding of all rose-inspired floral designs, rose trees have adorned cathedrals, estates, castles, and the most extravagant public and private gardens around the world.