Guinée

Where to plant. A sturdy wall, arch or pergola — a climber always needs a firm support. Choose partial shade or a spot without scorching midday sun, so the edges of the dark petals do not burn; the site should also be well ventilated to reduce the risk of black spot and powdery mildew. Scent: the variety's main value is its very strong, warm, honeyed-spicy-fruity tea fragrance, which spreads especially in the evening. Plant it near places where you sit, so the scent can be enjoyed up close.

Climate. USDA 6b–9b, RHS H5 (~−20…−23 °C). In Ukraine, in winter the canes are taken off the support and covered.

Care. It blooms mainly in one abundant flush in spring or early summer; repeat flowering is weak and irregular. Train it as a climber: direct the main canes horizontally, prune for hygiene, and keep the plant well ventilated against disease.

Name. 'Guinée' is named after the country of Guinea, then a French colony in West Africa.

Breeding. Bred by Charles Mallerin (France) around 1937–1938. Parentage: Souvenir de Claudius Denoyel × Ami Quinard. No code name — the variety is old. Class: climber (Climbing HT / Large-Flowered Climber).

Significance. One of the darkest roses in cultivation and, at the same time, one of the most fragrant roses altogether — a collectors' classic among dark climbers. The combination of an almost black velvety colour with a very strong honeyed, spicy scent has made Guinée sought after by collectors for more than eight decades.