Sunbelt® South Africa®

Scientific name: Rosa

Rose type: Floribunda

Bloom color: Orange, Yellow

The Sunbelt® South Africa® is a radiant and robust floribunda rose specifically bred by Kordes® to maintain its vibrant color in intense heat. It produces large, double, cupped blooms in a deep golden-yellow to peachy-apricot hue that remains non-fading even under the brightest sun. As a recipient of prestigious awards like the Glasgow Gold Medal, this vigorous grower features healthy, glossy dark green foliage and a moderate, light fragrance. Part of the Sunbelt® collection, it is a high-performance “color machine” that thrives in hot and humid conditions, providing a steady flush of sunny blooms from late spring through fall.

Grow Guide

  • Light: Plant in Full Sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight) to fuel its high-volume bloom production and ensure the best non-fading color.
  • Hardiness: Remarkably resilient and suitable for Zones 5–10, with a particular tolerance for the high-heat climates of the South and Southwest.
  • Spacing & Size: This rose has an upright, bushy habit, typically reaching 4′ tall and 2–3′ wide. Space plants approximately 18–36″ apart to create a dense flowering hedge or vibrant grouping.
  • Watering: Water regularly until fully established. Once mature, it is remarkably drought tolerant, but prefers deep watering at the base during dry periods to maintain its vigor and glossy foliage.
  • Best Use: Its sturdy stems and long vase life make it an excellent choice for cutting gardens. Its compact, upright shape is also perfect for hedges, mixed borders, and large patio containers.