Alchymist

Where to plant. Large walls, pergolas, arches, fences — wherever there is room for a powerful climber of 2.5–3 m. Thanks to its tolerance of partial shade, it suits even north- and east-facing walls. It needs space — it becomes massive over the years.

Climate. Exceptional hardiness — to −34 °C (USDA 4b); overwinters reliably throughout Ukraine without special protection. One of the most long-lived old climbing varieties.

Care. It flowers once a season, so prune right after flowering (not in spring), removing the oldest canes. To prevent black spot — good air flow and treatments in a wet summer.

Name. 'Alchymist' (in Ukrainian, Alkhimik) — a hint at the 'alchemy' of the flower itself, which changes colour from gold through peach to pink, as if a substance were transforming before one's eyes. In Ukrainian the variety is often called Alkhimik.

Breeding. Bred by Reimer Kordes (W. Kordes' Söhne, Germany) and introduced in 1956. Parentage: 'Golden Glow' (Brownell) × a hybrid of Rosa eglanteria — hence the light fragrance of the foliage and exceptional hardiness.

Significance. A classic of the world's climbing rose range — combining the form of an old quartered rosette, a warm apricot-gold colour, a powerful fruity-honey scent and record hardiness. Despite flowering only once, it remains a gardeners' favourite for its romantic look and reliability.