Spray roses refer to roses that develop clusters of blossoms on one stem or branch. Contrary to long-stem roses that produce one bloom per stem, these roses create a spray of smaller blossoms and are generally sold as sweetheart roses at the florist. Spray roses can, however, be grown in a pot and are generally labeled as mini roses.
Rose Variety
Floribunda roses produce a few blossoms on a branched stem often called a spray. These flowers are nestled tightly in a cluster. Each bud opens separately. The spray of roses often contains climbed in various stages of adulthood, from tight buds to fully open flowers.
Use
Spray roses constitute the bulk of little bouquets and corsages, together with the foliage creating an attractive background for the brightly colored blooms. Sprays are ideal for little floral arrangements where bigger roses may be overpowering. They add a touch of romance to some setting or occasion.
Bloom Type
Like other roses, spray roses could be single, double or semi-double flowers. Single flowers have one layer of four to eight petals, while semi-double flowers have anywhere from eight to 25 petals. Double blooms could have up to 45 petals. Bloom color is similar to other fireworks, which range from white and pink to deep red.
Size
Spray roses typically have smaller blossoms compared to other roses. Because the flowers are close together, one spray resembles a little bouquet held together by thin stems that join a thicker main stem. Though there are exceptions, even with some full-length floribunda roses forming a spray, generally, spray roses are prized for their mini size and dainty cluster of blooms.
Potted Spray Roses
Spray roses grown in pots tend to be mini roses. These roses obtain their name from the blossom size — maybe not the size of the plant. When transplanted to the garden, or grown in a large container, mini roses often climb to heights of 12 to 36 inches.