Sympathie

Where to plant. On an arch or pergola as a showy accent at an entrance; on a south or south-west wall of the house; as a “rose wall” on a metal grid; to climb over a gazebo; it also works well on its own because of its intense colour.

Climate. All of Ukraine without winter protection (USDA 4–9); exceptional winter hardiness of the Kordesii series; tolerates summer heat without the colour fading.

Care. Full sun; moderate disease prevention; feed 2–3× per season; prune weak shoots in spring, and leave the main framework canes for 3–5 years for flowering.

Name. “Sympathie” = “Sympathy” (German/French). A classic “emotional” name from Kordes — an expression of sympathy for the person to whom the rose is given. A universal name that makes the variety easy to give as a gift and recognisable across Europe. Breeder: bred by Reimer Kordes at W. Kordes' Söhne (Sparrieshoop, Germany). Code KORlift. Introduced 1964. Parentage: 'Wilhelm Hansmann' × 'Don Juan' — both parents are red climbers, which gives an exceptionally saturated red pigment. It belongs to the Hybrid Kordesii series, founded by Reimer's father Wilhelm Kordes on the basis of a frost-hardy hybrid of R. rugosa × R. wichuraiana — which is why Sympathie withstands down to −34 °C without winter protection.

Significance. ADR 1966 — the prestigious German award Allgemeine Deutsche Rosenneuheitenprüfung, received 2 years after introduction (a rare speed of recognition). One of Europe's best-selling climbers for 60+ years — the standard against which all new red climbers are compared. Does not fade in sun — a rare quality for red climbers. Exceptional winter hardiness — grows without protection where other climbers freeze. Highly resistant to black spot and powdery mildew — the Kordesii series was specifically bred as a “healthier” alternative to older climbers. Versatile: arch, pergola, wall, large support — suitable in any format.