ALL ABOUT ROSES
Old Garden Roses and Older Roses
The Romance of the Gallicas
by Rhea Worrell
In this article, I will introduce you to the Gallica roses -- their general characteristics, illustrious history and many virtues --- and offer some practical suggestions for choosing and growing them.
Why Gallicas are romantic:
- Absence makes the heart grow fonder; because Gallicas are extraordinarily beautiful (and relatively short lived) they inspire poetic thoughts.
- Gallicas have a wonderful history that invokes images of majestic royal gardens, medieval herbal apothecaries, rapturous poetry and art. The Knights of The Round Table. Cloistered monks. Persian gardens. The Pre-Raphaelite painters. And so forth.
- Gallicas are available, inexpensive, and easy to grow. You may feel that secrecy, longing and loss are more romantic. But having access to beauty comes first. The deprivation, waiting, and yearning comes later!
Rosa gallica officinalis, the Apothecary Rose, was the first cultivated rose. It is the first and the most famous of the Gallica roses. Originally a species rose, it grew wild in central Asia. It was first cultivated by the ancient Persians and Egyptians, and later adopted by the Greeks and the Romans. The Romans introduced it in Gaul (later known as France) where it assumed the named Rosa gallica. The fragrance of the Apothecary Rose is wonderful, and, reportedly, has a quality that sets it apart from all other roses. It is said that the petals of the Apothecary Rose -- and it alone -- are able to retain, or even increase their fragrance after being picked. For this reason, it is often considered the rose of choice for potpourris.
During the Middle Ages (the period from the 800 to the 1300's), the Apothecary Rose was used widely as a medicinal herb, as well as a food and a source of perfume. It was used as a medicine and perfume in the court of Charlemagne in the ninth century A.D. Products included extracts, syrups, potpourris, preserves and wine. Because it combined great beauty with healing virtues, the Gallica was widely considered a symbol of spiritual grace and purity as well as sensual pleasure, and it became the inspiration for poetry (Le Roman de la Rose), art, architecture (Rose Windows in cathedrals) and song.
Dutch, French and English growers produced many hybrids. Gallicas, along with Damasks, Albas and Centifolias, dominated English and European gardens until the nineteenth century. For example, Agatha Incarnata is a very famous old rose that was dedicated to a Christian martyr in fifteenth-century Provence. The peak of Gallica cultivation was the Empress Josephine's collection of over 1000 varieties at Malmaison. The good news is that so many of them still exist. The 2000 Vintage Gardens catalog lists 89 of them.
However, the decline of Gallicas had already begun when, in the 1700s remontant Chinas and Teas were incorporated into the rose breeding gene pool. As wonderful as the Gallicas had been, there was extraordinary interest in repeat-blooming roses, and in the peachy and yellow tints that the China hybrids offered. The Gallicas gradually fell from favor as the newer, repeat-blooming roses (Noisettes, Portlands, Hybrid Perpetuals, Mosses and Bourbons) gained a foothold. Gallicas are low, suckering, compact shrubs of 2-5 feet. Their foliage is a matte dark green color; the leaves are oval, but pointed, with roughly-serrated edges. In addition, some bear attractive fruit (hips) and have colorful fall foliage.
Gallicas bloom in May to June. Flowers occur singly or in groups of three in a wide range of white, pink and purple shades; in crimson, burgundy, violet, mauve, purple, pink, and lilac. They may be striped (Rosa Mundi), spotted (Alain Blanchard), bicolored (Daphne), veined (Duc du Guiche, Empress Josephine), blushed (Belle Isis) or marbled (Jenny Duval, Belle de Crecy). Most are prolific bloomers and very fragrant. According to David Austin, "No other old rose produces such a subtle and fascinating mixture of color." He calls Charles de Mills "the largest-flowered and most spectacular of the old roses," and proclaims Empress Josephine "One of the most beautiful Old Roses... excellent in every way..."
Gallicas have many virtues. So many, in fact, that it is easy to forgive them for their relatively short blooming season of 3-6 weeks. Like the other European roses --- Albas, Centifolias and Damasks --- Gallicas are cold hardy to Zone 4 (-20 degrees). Suzanne Verrier, who has grown roses in Vermont, and has recently written a book on Gallicas, stated that she had never lost one to cold weather.
During the Middle Ages (the period from the 800 to the 1300's), the Apothecary Rose was used widely as a medicinal herb, as well as a food and a source of perfume. It was used as a medicine and perfume in the court of Charlemagne in the ninth century A.D. Products included extracts, syrups, potpourris, preserves and wine. Because it combined great beauty with healing virtues, the Gallica was widely considered a symbol of spiritual grace and purity as well as sensual pleasure, and it became the inspiration for poetry (Le Roman de la Rose), art, architecture (Rose Windows in cathedrals) and song.
Dutch, French and English growers produced many hybrids. Gallicas, along with Damasks, Albas and Centifolias, dominated English and European gardens until the nineteenth century. For example, Agatha Incarnata is a very famous old rose that was dedicated to a Christian martyr in fifteenth-century Provence. The peak of Gallica cultivation was the Empress Josephine's collection of over 1000 varieties at Malmaison. The good news is that so many of them still exist. The 2000 Vintage Gardens catalog lists 89 of them.
However, the decline of Gallicas had already begun when, in the 1700s remontant Chinas and Teas were incorporated into the rose breeding gene pool. As wonderful as the Gallicas had been, there was extraordinary interest in repeat-blooming roses, and in the peachy and yellow tints that the China hybrids offered. The Gallicas gradually fell from favor as the newer, repeat-blooming roses (Noisettes, Portlands, Hybrid Perpetuals, Mosses and Bourbons) gained a foothold. Gallicas are low, suckering, compact shrubs of 2-5 feet. Their foliage is a matte dark green color; the leaves are oval, but pointed, with roughly-serrated edges. In addition, some bear attractive fruit (hips) and have colorful fall foliage.
Gallicas bloom in May to June. Flowers occur singly or in groups of three in a wide range of white, pink and purple shades; in crimson, burgundy, violet, mauve, purple, pink, and lilac. They may be striped (Rosa Mundi), spotted (Alain Blanchard), bicolored (Daphne), veined (Duc du Guiche, Empress Josephine), blushed (Belle Isis) or marbled (Jenny Duval, Belle de Crecy). Most are prolific bloomers and very fragrant. According to David Austin, "No other old rose produces such a subtle and fascinating mixture of color." He calls Charles de Mills "the largest-flowered and most spectacular of the old roses," and proclaims Empress Josephine "One of the most beautiful Old Roses... excellent in every way..."
Gallicas have many virtues. So many, in fact, that it is easy to forgive them for their relatively short blooming season of 3-6 weeks. Like the other European roses --- Albas, Centifolias and Damasks --- Gallicas are cold hardy to Zone 4 (-20 degrees). Suzanne Verrier, who has grown roses in Vermont, and has recently written a book on Gallicas, stated that she had never lost one to cold weather.
Gallicas are easy to grow!
The very best part of all this is that these vigorous, floriferous, fragrant roses are so easy to grow. They are excellent garden subjects, as they are small to moderate-sized (2-4 feet), and compact, and require little maintenance. Their variable bloom colors harmonize well with perennials. They are both pest- and disease-resistant and do not need particularly good soil. They tolerate shade and do not need winter protection. (If you live in a hot climate, they will actually be happier with afternoon shade).When grown on their own roots, they produce suckers and will soon form a dense hedge, if desired. Suckers can also be dug out to form new starts to give to friends or to sell. (If suckering is not desired, simply purchase grafted, rather than own-root plants).
The very best part of all this is that these vigorous, floriferous, fragrant roses are so easy to grow. They are excellent garden subjects, as they are small to moderate-sized (2-4 feet), and compact, and require little maintenance. Their variable bloom colors harmonize well with perennials. They are both pest- and disease-resistant and do not need particularly good soil. They tolerate shade and do not need winter protection. (If you live in a hot climate, they will actually be happier with afternoon shade).When grown on their own roots, they produce suckers and will soon form a dense hedge, if desired. Suckers can also be dug out to form new starts to give to friends or to sell. (If suckering is not desired, simply purchase grafted, rather than own-root plants).
According to a 1997 poll in American Rose (the American Rose Society's magazine), these are the top 10 Gallica choices among ARS members in America.
Apothecary Rose / Rosa gallica officinalis / Maxima / Red Rose of Lancaster / Rose of Provins One of the most ancient of all cultivated roses, yet it is still a wild rose. Richly perfumed bright crimson double blooms with gold stamens. Used for attar of roses. Produces hips; ideal for cuisine and medicinal uses. The small, pretty bush is sized just right for a perennial bed or low hedge. 3 feet.
Charles de Mills A very popular Gallica due to its profusion of very large, quartered, deep red-violet flowers on a nicely-rounded, well-foliaged plant, to striking effect. Little fading of blooms and few thorns. Fragrance is minimal, upright rowers may need staking. . About 5 x 5 feet. Austin calls him "...the most spectacular of the old roses."
Belle de Crecy Distinguished by a bountiful display of large, full "crushed velvet" blooms in pink to lavender tints, fading to lavender / gray. Narrow, bush with arching, thornless canes. Excellent performer: bloom season lasts longer than most; 2-4 feet tall, and very fragrant.
Duchesse de Montebello / Gloire de France Rather small, soft pink, open, semidouble blooms, arching canes and sweet scent. Abundant light-colored foliage on a small, upright, cascading bush. To 4 feet. This one benefits from amended soil.
Belle Isis Fat, round buds, small, delicate, but full blooms of pink-blushed cream, and an excellent scent mark this Gallica. It has small leaves, and is sturdy, low-growing and thorny -- a beautiful barrier ground cover.
Rosa Mundi / Rosa gallica versicolor A sport of Apothecary Rose, it is different in only one respect: its blooms. They are white with a rich crimson striping. It still has the pedigree, the perfume, the golden stamens, and the general appearance and uses of the original.
Camaieux Brightly colored stripes and strokes of bright crimson and white on a pale pink ground, make for a showy floral display. Colors fade to magenta and lavender gray. "Sweet, spicy fragrance," but ragged blooms and slightly rugose dull green leaves. May reach 4 feet, but can be hard to establish, staying small.
Tuscany / Old Velvet Explodes with plenteous double blooms in a superb shade: very deep, dark burgundy with the appearance of crushed antique velvet. Its stamens are a rich gold, but flowers are smallish and fragrance light. Good garden form. To 3 feet.
Cardinal Richelieu Velvety, sweetly fragrant, very dark burgundy to purple petals with a dash of white compose small puffball blooms. This is a delicate and attractive plant with shiny green shoots, plentiful foliage and few thorns. Good pruning -- and fertilizer -- is rewarded. 4-5 feet.
Tuscany Superb is the same as Tuscany but everything is bigger and better, including vigor, height, and fragrance. It's probably a sport. The blooms are regal in appearance, and suitable for the most formal arrangements. Glorious. Mid-sized: to 4 feet.
Apothecary Rose / Rosa gallica officinalis / Maxima / Red Rose of Lancaster / Rose of Provins One of the most ancient of all cultivated roses, yet it is still a wild rose. Richly perfumed bright crimson double blooms with gold stamens. Used for attar of roses. Produces hips; ideal for cuisine and medicinal uses. The small, pretty bush is sized just right for a perennial bed or low hedge. 3 feet.
Charles de Mills A very popular Gallica due to its profusion of very large, quartered, deep red-violet flowers on a nicely-rounded, well-foliaged plant, to striking effect. Little fading of blooms and few thorns. Fragrance is minimal, upright rowers may need staking. . About 5 x 5 feet. Austin calls him "...the most spectacular of the old roses."
Belle de Crecy Distinguished by a bountiful display of large, full "crushed velvet" blooms in pink to lavender tints, fading to lavender / gray. Narrow, bush with arching, thornless canes. Excellent performer: bloom season lasts longer than most; 2-4 feet tall, and very fragrant.
Duchesse de Montebello / Gloire de France Rather small, soft pink, open, semidouble blooms, arching canes and sweet scent. Abundant light-colored foliage on a small, upright, cascading bush. To 4 feet. This one benefits from amended soil.
Belle Isis Fat, round buds, small, delicate, but full blooms of pink-blushed cream, and an excellent scent mark this Gallica. It has small leaves, and is sturdy, low-growing and thorny -- a beautiful barrier ground cover.
Rosa Mundi / Rosa gallica versicolor A sport of Apothecary Rose, it is different in only one respect: its blooms. They are white with a rich crimson striping. It still has the pedigree, the perfume, the golden stamens, and the general appearance and uses of the original.
Camaieux Brightly colored stripes and strokes of bright crimson and white on a pale pink ground, make for a showy floral display. Colors fade to magenta and lavender gray. "Sweet, spicy fragrance," but ragged blooms and slightly rugose dull green leaves. May reach 4 feet, but can be hard to establish, staying small.
Tuscany / Old Velvet Explodes with plenteous double blooms in a superb shade: very deep, dark burgundy with the appearance of crushed antique velvet. Its stamens are a rich gold, but flowers are smallish and fragrance light. Good garden form. To 3 feet.
Cardinal Richelieu Velvety, sweetly fragrant, very dark burgundy to purple petals with a dash of white compose small puffball blooms. This is a delicate and attractive plant with shiny green shoots, plentiful foliage and few thorns. Good pruning -- and fertilizer -- is rewarded. 4-5 feet.
Tuscany Superb is the same as Tuscany but everything is bigger and better, including vigor, height, and fragrance. It's probably a sport. The blooms are regal in appearance, and suitable for the most formal arrangements. Glorious. Mid-sized: to 4 feet.
At least three Gallicas have hips: Empress Josephine, Complicata (a cross between two wild roses -- Rosa gallica and Rosa canina) and Rosa gallica officinalis (the "officinalis" denotes that the plant is used as an herbal remedy). Complicata's hips are long ovals of bright scarlet, Rosa gallica's are large, round and dark red. The hips of either will make a tasty and very healthful tea or syrup. These are all outstanding roses, but do make sure they are grown organically, if you (or your backyard critters) plan to eat the hips.
Consider buying at least one Gallica when you next buy rose plants. Begin with Tuscany Superb, The Apothecary Rose, or Rosa Mundi. (Then again, you may want to start with Complicata. Its large single pink blooms smother the canes. It is vigorous and has winter hips. A friend once told me that contrary to its name, this was the best-performing rose in her garden). Which ever one[s] you choose, you'll be mesmerized by its beauty, readily forgiving its limited season of bloom. Early summer will never seem the same once you've experienced the sheer romantic inspiration of the Gallica rose. All year, you'll dream of its blooms, buoyed only by the memory of its beauty, and by the anticipation of even greater things to come.
SOURCES
Austin, David. Shrub Roses and Climbing Roses. Woodbridge, Suffolk, UK: Antique Collectors Club, 1993.
Gordon, Lesley. Old Roses. London, Grange Books, 1983.
Sala, Orietta. Old-fashioned Roses. A Mitchell Beasley Guide. London: Reed, 1995. First published as Le Rosa d'Epoca. n.p.: Garzantia Editore, 1993.
Worrell, Rhea. Rose Hips II. Help Me Find Roses website October 1999 e-zine.
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No man can say, no man remember
How many uses there are
For oil of roses as a cure from mankind's ailments.
-- Walafrid Strabo c. 842
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
O my luve is like a red, red rose,
That's newly sprung in June;
O my luve is like the melodie
That's sweetly played in tune...
-- Robert Burns, 1794
SOURCES
Austin, David. Shrub Roses and Climbing Roses. Woodbridge, Suffolk, UK: Antique Collectors Club, 1993.
Gordon, Lesley. Old Roses. London, Grange Books, 1983.
Sala, Orietta. Old-fashioned Roses. A Mitchell Beasley Guide. London: Reed, 1995. First published as Le Rosa d'Epoca. n.p.: Garzantia Editore, 1993.
Worrell, Rhea. Rose Hips II. Help Me Find Roses website October 1999 e-zine.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
No man can say, no man remember
How many uses there are
For oil of roses as a cure from mankind's ailments.
-- Walafrid Strabo c. 842
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
O my luve is like a red, red rose,
That's newly sprung in June;
O my luve is like the melodie
That's sweetly played in tune...
-- Robert Burns, 1794
