Kerio Rose: The Bright Yellow Rose for Bouquets

Kerio is one of the most popular yellow varieties in flower shops. Its large lemon-yellow bud stands out from afar, and a light scent with citrus and honey notes sets it apart from many cut roses. Here is what Kerio looks like, where it comes from and which occasions it suits.

What the Kerio Rose Looks Like

Kerio is a hybrid tea cut rose with a large bloom of clear, bright lemon yellow. The flower is double (about 17–25 petals) and big: fully open it can reach 12–13 cm across. The colour is even, without green or orange tones, and does not fade quickly. Unlike many cut varieties, Kerio has a light, pleasant scent with citrus and honey notes.

Origin of the Variety

Kerio was bred by Dutch breeder Lex Voorn and registered in 2002. Since then it has become one of the go-to yellow roses in floristry worldwide. Other popular varieties are in rose varieties for bouquets.

Kerio in Bouquets

Today yellow roses mean joy, friendship and optimism, so Kerio suits a friend’s or colleague’s birthday, a thank-you, congratulations on a success or simply a bright mood. A bouquet of 15–25 Kerio looks like sunshine, and with white roses, sea holly or irises it makes a fresh yellow-and-blue palette. The meaning of yellow is in yellow roses, and other varieties are in roses.

How Long Kerio Lasts in a Vase

With proper care the rose lasts 7–10 days. The basics:

• Cut the stems at an angle, 2–3 cm up, with a sharp knife and strip leaves below the waterline.
• Use a clean vase with cool water and flower food.
• Change the water every 1–2 days, trimming the stems a little each time.
• Keep the bouquet away from radiators, direct sun and fruit.

More tips in how to make a rose bouquet last.

FAQ

Does the Kerio rose smell?

Yes, it has a light scent with citrus and honey notes.

Who bred Kerio?

Dutch breeder Lex Voorn; it was registered in 2002.

Can I give yellow Kerio roses to my partner?

Yes: today yellow means joy and warmth, and the old superstition about separation is outdated.

Author: Maria Svitlovir

Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.

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