A Garden Rose in Her Honor: The Dedication of Princess Hitomi
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
There are some people in our industry whose presence stays with you long after you've met them. Not just because of what they create, but because of their style and the way they teach and inspire others along the way. Hitomi Gilliam is one of those people.
In March 2026, we had the pleasure of welcoming Gilliam to Alexandra Farms. Her visit to the farm was filled with meaningful conversations and a deep appreciation for the beauty that connects us all. And the purpose behind her long-awaited visit was just as meaningful: the dedication and celebration of a garden rose variety named after the renowned designer/educator herself.
Princess Hitomi (Beautiful History), from our Princess Garden Rose collection, has officially been dedicated in honor of Hitomi Gilliam.
"We're very grateful for everything Hitomi has given to this industry," said Jose R. Azout, president of Alexandra Farms. "It's an honor to celebrate that through this rose."
A Garden Rose That Reflects Her Spirit
Naming a garden rose variety is not something we take lightly. Before we introduced Princess Hitomi in 2019, the then-unnamed variety was already a standout among our selections for the year. The bloom's soft blush tones unfold into a delicate, layered rosette, creating a presence that feels both gentle and expressive. She brings elegance without excess. Quiet beauty without force. A sense of intention in every detail. There's a refinement to her shape, a softness in her movement – all qualities that remind us of Gilliam's approach to floral design. It seemed only natural to give this special garden rose a special name.
"I am so honored. It's something I still can't quite believe," said Gilliam. "A rose so beautiful, with such incredible quality, and to be connected to it in this way is truly special."
And there's an unintentional connection between Princess Hitomi's second name — Beautiful History — and the designer's life story. Gilliam was born in Japan and has lived in Canada since a young age, working in various roles in the floral industry for most of her life. She talks about how her design style is informed by her history, specifically by the Japanese language's traditional tategaki ("vertical writing") style. "Everyone has a designer inside of them, with their own signature shaped by their heritage and story," said Gilliam.
Gilliam has been a long-time garden rose enthusiast, educating countless designers over the years and sharing her knowledge about how to design with and care for our garden roses. Her work has touched many around the world – not only through her designs but also through her willingness to teach, share, and give back to the floral industry. Our industry thrives on connection, and that willingness and drive make a difference. Princess Hitomi garden rose is a tribute to that impact and to Gilliam's floral journey.
It was an honor to finally dedicate this beautiful variety while Gilliam was with us, surrounded by our garden roses, the greenhouses, and friends from across the industry. The ceremony was simple and heartfelt, like the garden rose itself, and like the best moments tend to be. We are grateful for the time we shared and deeply honored to have Princess Hitomi in our collection. This naming is a way for her influence to live on through our farm as something that will grow, be shared, and become part of new memories for years to come.
A Conversation about Princess Hitomi
Watch a conversation between Alexandra Farms President Jose R. Azout and Hitomi Gilliam filmed after the dedication in March 2026.
