History of Garden Roses
Alba roses
Rosa x alba is an ancient hybrid of European gardens
and was once considered to be the double form of a wild species.
However, it is now thought to be derived from R. damascena and
a wild rose such as R. corymbifera from the Mediterranean or the
dog rose
R. canina from Europe.
Two of the oldest Albas are 'Maidens Bush' and R. x alba 'Semi
Plena' (White Rose of York). Another early form, R. x alba 'Maxima'
(Great Double White) is also known as the Jacobite Rose as
it was the badge of Bonnie Prince Charlie and his followers. Many albas
such as 'Queen of Denmark' were not developed until the 19th century.
It is believed that an Alba rose hybridised with the Autumn Damask,
produced E. centifolia (Provence or Great Holland Rose). This
rose produced several sports, of which the most important
was R. x centifolia 'Muscosa' (Common
Moss).
More plants
Back
up to: History of garden roses
On
to: Moss and China roses
|