A variety (or group of varieties) of cultivated rose, derived from the species Rosa indica, var. odorata, having flowers of a pale yellow color, with a delicate scent supposed to resemble that of tea. Originally, tea-scented rose.
1850. Florist, Aug., 191. The delicate and odorous Tea Rose fated to be admired and to languish in the drawing-room.
1882. Garden, 11 March. Tea Roses may be pruned in April.
b. The color of this rose. Also attrib.
1884. Chr. World Fam. Circle, 4 Nov., 260/4. Amongst the favourite colours are imperial yellow, Nile blue, tea rose and cardinal.
1900. St. James’ Gaz., 21 Sept., 6/2. A bolero of tea-rose silk.
