One of the most delicate old albas; once-flowering but very profuse in early summer; strong sweet fragrance; USDA 4b — very hardy, in Ukraine no winter protection needed.
No code (old variety)
Once-flowering: profuse bloom once in early summer, on last year's wood; there is no repeat flush. Months are approximate, for the climate of Ukraine.
Award of Garden Merit, 1993
Up to 120 petals.
Strong and sweet — one of the most distinctive fragrances among albas.
Grows well even in partial shade.
Sources differ: from 'very prickly' to 'almost thornless' — the exact level is unknown.
Greyish green, typical of albas.
Pale flesh pink at the centre, lightening to almost creamy white at the edges and as the flower fully opens.
Delicate pink roses — one colour family:
Blue, lilac and silver neighbours bring out the delicate pink:
Key traits that set this old variety apart:
Where to plant. Shade-tolerant, compact and dense — well suited to mixed borders, old-fashioned and partly shaded areas of the garden; needs no support.
Climate. USDA 4b–9b, very hardy; in Ukraine it overwinters without cover.
Care. Very healthy, almost no disease sprays needed. As the variety flowers once a season, prune straight after flowering, leaving last year's canes alone — next year's flowers form on them.
Name. Named after its breeder.
Breeding. Bred by Louis-Joseph-Ghislain Parmentier (Belgium) before 1834; Alba class.
Significance. One of the most delicate old albas, exceptionally hardy and healthy; flowers only once per season, but very profusely.
Once-flowering: profuse bloom once in early summer, on last year's wood; there is no repeat flush.
About 120 cm tall, 90–120 cm wide.
Shade-tolerant; grows well even in partial shade.
Strong and sweet — one of the most distinctive fragrances among albas.
