Launch of the Elizabeth Casson Rose
The College of Occupational Therapists is delighted to announce that HRH The Princess Royal will be launching this beautiful new rose at Chelsea Flower Show this month.
Developed by Harkness Roses, it has been named to commemorate the life and work of Dr Elizabeth Casson, founder of the first school of occupational therapy in the UK 75 years ago.
If you are visiting the Chelsea Flower Show, make sure you visit the Harkness stand in the Floral Pavilion to admire this beautiful rose and enjoy its fragrance.
Further information on the launch and details of how to place an order will appear soon.
The College will receive 10% of net sales to support its ongoing work.
Harkness Roses http://www.roses.co.uk
Elizabeth Casson 'Harkish'
A charming pale pink with lilac tones, Elizabeth Casson will delight rose lovers. Its delicate appearance belies its rugged hardiness, it is robust and free-flowering and repeats well. The semi-double blooms are born in large clusters, making a clear and forthright display that is at its best when planted in groups, particularly in beds or as a dividing hedge. The perfume is strong and fruity, exquisite floating in the summer air and when cut for the vase. This rose is also a wonderful companion plant in mixed borders.
Dr Elizabeth Casson
Dr Elizabeth Casson founded the first School of Occupational Therapy in the UK as well as being an eminent psychiatrist. There has always been a strong connection between occupational therapy and horticulture, a legacy from Dr Casson herself, who used the gardens at her Dorset House clinic as a therapeutic medium for her patients. Occupation is at the heart of what occupational therapy is all about - whether that occupation is self-care, leisure and pleasure, or employment.
The young Elizabeth Casson realised the importance of outdoor pursuits when she worked in Octavia Hill's social housing development of 12 model cottages with an 'open air sitting-room'. The restoration of this Red Cross Gardens 'open air sitting-room' is due to be completed in 2005. The Elizabeth Casson and Octavia Hill roses will be used extensively in the planting.
