Ground cover rose plant named `Flower Carpet Appleblossom`

Abstract

A new and distinct variety of ground cover rose plant is provided which forms continuously throughout the season attractive long-lasting pure light pink blossoms. The blossoms tend to open on a reliable basis and to retain their attractiveness upon aging. The new variety exhibits a compact, spreading and overhanging (i.e., long arching) growth habit that renders it suitable for growing as an ornamental ground cover in the landscape. The foliage is glossy and contrasts well with the pure light pink blossoms. The pure light blossom coloration is well retained upon the aging of the blossoms, and petals drop off cleanly as the blossoms mature. The new variety propagates well from cuttings, by the budding of an eye, and by grafting. Excellent resistance to blackspot, mildew, and rust are exhibited.

I claim: 
     
       1. A new and distinct variety of ground cover rose plant characterized by the following combination of characteristics: (a) forms attractive pure light pink medium-sized, long-lasting blossoms which tend to open on a reliable basis and to retain their attactiveness upon aging,   (b) exhibits a compact, spreading, and long arching growth habit,   (c) forms attractive glossy foliage that contrasts well with the pure light pink blossoms,   (d) exhibits excellent disease resistance with respect to blackspot, mildew, and rust, and   (e) is particularly suited for growing as attractive ornamentation in the landscape; substantially as herein shown and described.