History of Garden Roses

Hybrid China, Portland and Bourbon roses

Hybrid China

Hybrid Chinas were produced in the early 19th century from direct crosses between China roses and the other existing groups. They are often listed with R. chinensis hybrids and known collectively as China roses.

Portland

In the late 18th century a rose called 'Portlandica' appeared, which was the result of a chance cross, possibly between R. gallica 'Officinalis' and the Autumn Damask. 'Portlandica', named after the Duchess of Portland a rose enthusiast, when crossed with China derivatives produced the Portland group, the first of which was 'Rose du Roi'.

Bourbon

This group is descended from seedlings of a chance hybrid found on the lle de Bourbon (Reunion Island) in about 1817. The parents are believed to have been the Autumn Damask, and the 'Old Blush China '. Bourbons were very popular and when crossed with R. x odorata produced the pink Tea Roses.

More plants

Back up to: History of garden roses

On to: Noisette and Hybrid Perpetual roses