Rosa - Climbing Rose

Climbing roses are a diverse group of roses that includes various species and cultivars, with many not native to a specific region due to extensive hybridization. As their name implies, these roses are known for their climbing growth habit, often utilized for vertical interest in the garden.

Size: In terms of size, climbing roses can vary greatly. Some varieties may reach a modest 6 to 8 feet (1.8 to 2.4 meters), while others can extend up to 15 feet (4.6 meters) or more. The key to their height is the support they’re given as they grow by sending out long, arching canes that can be trained onto trellises, arbors, fences, or walls.

Flowers: Flowers can be large and solitary but are often smaller and borne in clusters, depending on the variety. Colors encompass the full spectrum found in roses, from pure whites and soft pinks to vivid reds and deep purples. Some even offer a delightful fragrance.

Bloom time: Unlike rambling roses, most climbing roses repeat flowers throughout summer and fall. Most bloom two or more times every season: first on old canes and then on the current season’s growth. However, several cultivars bloom continuously throughout the growing season.

Hardiness: They are generally hardy in USDA zones 5-9, with some even suitable for zone 10.

Uses: In the garden, climbing roses add height, form, and color, making them ideal for softening structures or creating romantic archways. They attract bees and other pollinators with their abundance of flowers.

A key fact about climbing roses is they don’t actually climb in the same way as vines do. Instead, they need to be manually secured and trained in the direction you wish them to grow. Patience is key when growing these roses, as they often take two to three years to fully establish and begin to display their true blooming potential.