Autumn Damask

Prior to 1819

4 to 5 feet

This is quite probably the plant that writers in antiquity described as the Four Seasons Rose of Paestum. 'Autumn Damask' is the only one of the Old European roses to repeat its bloom, and some rosarians have suggested that it is a species hybrid with R. chinensis, created where the far edges of their ranges touch. Its garden value is undeniable, with richly fragrant flowers occurring in abundance on a compact, hardy shrub in spring, followed by scattered blossoms through the summer and fall. Light pink and double, this ruffled rose contains a good measure of Damask scent, possibly the finest perfume in the rose world.