Roses have been cherished for centuries with their timeless beauty and enchanting fragrance. The Rose Hall of Fame pays tribute to exceptional rose varieties that have stood the test of time, captivating gardeners worldwide. This article delves into the stories of Hall of Fame Rose winners who deserve a place in every garden. From the iconic ‘Peace’ to the charming ‘Cocktail,’ each rose tells a tale of resilience and enduring allure.
The selection process for roses worthy of the Rose Hall of Fame involves a combination of experts, horticulturists, and rose enthusiasts. Various international rose societies, organizations, and committees participate in evaluating and nominating roses for induction into the Hall of Fame.
These entities often consider historical significance, cultural impact, unique characteristics, fragrance, disease resistance, and overall beauty.
The World Federation of Rose Societies (WFRS) is one prominent organization that recognizes outstanding roses. They organize international rose trials, where new rose varieties are assessed for performance under various conditions. Roses that consistently exhibit exceptional qualities may eventually be nominated for inclusion in the Rose Hall of Fame.
In 1976, Peace, also known as Mme A. Meilland or Gioia, Gloria Dei Meilland, earned its place in the Hall of Fame. Bred by Meilland in 1939, this Hybrid Tea rose was hailed as the most beautiful French rose in 1942. With accolades like the Golden Medal from Portland in 1944 and the AARS award in 1946, ‘Peace’ became a symbol of hope and beauty.
Lammerts introduced ‘Queen Elizabeth’ in 1954, and it quickly became a Grandiflora sensation. Winning the Golden Medal from Portland in 1954 and the AARS award in 1955, this rose graced gardens with regal elegance.
The Interactive Presidential Trophy in 1955 and the Golden Medal from ‘The Hague’ in 1957 further solidified its royal status.
Tantau’s ‘Fragrant Cloud,’ introduced in 1963, enchanted gardeners with its Hybrid Tea charm. Honored with the ADR award in 1964 and the Golden Medal from Portland in 1966 and 1967, this rose filled the air with its delightful fragrance. The Gamble Fragrance Award in 1969 and 1970 added to its perfumed legacy.
Introduced by Kordes in 1958, ‘Iceberg’ proved to be a Floribunda marvel. Winning the Golden Medal in ‘Baden-Baden’ and RNRS in 1958, and ADR in 1960, ‘Iceberg’ showcased its snow-white blooms in gardens worldwide.
Swim & Ellis presented ‘Double Delight’ in 1977, a Hybrid Tea rose that earned the Baden-Baden Gold Medal in 1976 and the Rome Gold Medal in the same year. The All-America Rose Selection in 1977 solidified its status as a sensational beauty.
'Papa Meilland' rose - Elegance in Hybrid Tea Form
Introduced by Meilland in 1963, ‘Papa Meilland’ graced gardens with its Hybrid Tea elegance. Garnering the Baden-Baden Gold Medal in 1962 and the Gamble Fragrance Award in 1974, this rose added a touch of sophistication to landscapes.
'Pascali' rose - The White Hybrid Tea Beauty
Lens introduced ‘Pascali’ in 1963, a Hybrid Tea rose that earned the coveted Hague Gold Medal in the same year and the AARS award in 1969. Its pristine white blooms and graceful form made it a timeless favorite.
'Just Joey' rose - Hybrid Tea Masterpiece
In 1972, Cant introduced ‘Just Joey,’ a Hybrid Tea masterpiece. The rose gained recognition from Cants of Colchester, securing its place in the Hall of Fame.
Introduced in 1930 by Dreer, ‘New Dawn’ stood out as a Hybrid Wichurana rose. Acclaimed by the Somerset Rose Nursery, this rose showcased the enduring beauty of Hybrid Wichurana varieties.
'Ingrid Bergman' rose - A Hybrid Tea Star
Poulsen introduced ‘Ingrid Bergman’ in 1984, a Hybrid Tea rose adorned with the Madrid Gold Medal in 1986 and The Hague Golden Rose in 1987. With an AGM in 1993, this rose earned its place among the stars.
Introduced by Meilland in 1981, ‘Bonica 82’ graced gardens as a Floribunda marvel. Despite the ADR being detracted in 1982, this rose received the AARS award in 1986 and the prestigious AGM in 1993. With a captivating charm, ‘Bonica 82’ continued the legacy of Meilland’s contributions to the world of roses.
Also known as ‘Eden’ or ‘Meiviolin,’ ‘Pierre de Ronsard’ was introduced by Meilland in 1985 as part of the Romantica Collection. This climbing rose added a romantic touch to gardens and earned its place in the Hall of Fame in 2006.
'Elina' rose - Dickson's Hybrid Tea Delight
In 1984, Dickson introduced ‘Elina,’ a Hybrid Tea rose.
Received the ADR in 1987 and the South Pacific Rose Society’s Gold Star in the same year. With the AGM in 1993, ‘Elina’ showcased the beauty and elegance typical of Hybrid Tea roses.
David Austin presented Graham Thomas in 1983, an English Rose that continues to captivate enthusiasts. With its AGM in 1993, this rose pays homage to the English Rose tradition, adding a touch of old-world charm to contemporary gardens.
Introduced in 1976 by Holmes, ‘Sally Holmes’ made a mark as a Hybrid Musk rose. The rose garnered the Golden Medal in Monza in 1979, the Golden Medal in ‘Baden-Baden’ in 1980, and the Portland Gold Medal in 1993. ‘Sally Holmes’ remains a testament to the enduring appeal of Hybrid Musk roses.
'Cocktail' rose - Meilland's Shrub/Climber Gem
In 1957, Meilland introduced ‘Cocktail,’ a Shrub/Climber rose that earned an Honorary Mention in 1954. This rose’s distinctive charm and recognition in 1954 makes it a unique addition to the Hall of Fame, representing
the diversity of rose classifications.
Also known as ‘Mignon’ or ‘Sweetheart,’ Ducher introduced ‘Cécile Brunner’ in 1881 as a Polyantha rose. This original induction into the Hall of Fame highlights the timeless beauty and enduring popularity of ‘Cécile Brunner.’
The list of rose varieties in the hall of fame is constantly expanding. Here are a few more varieties that have also earned their place in the World Hall of Fame:
- ‘Gloire de Dijon’ (1988)
- ‘Old Blush’ (1988)
- ‘Souvenir de la Malmaison’ (1988)
- ‘Gruss an Teplitz’ (2000)
- ‘Madame Alfred Carrière’ (2003)
- ‘Madame Hardy’ (2006)
- ‘Rosa Mundi’ (2009)
- ‘Mutabilis’ (2012)
- ‘Officinalis’ (2012)
- ‘Charles de Mills’ (2015)
Please note that this list is not exhaustive. A complete list can be found on the World Federation of Rose Societies website.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Rose Hall of Fame selection considers factors such as historical significance, cultural impact, enduring popularity, and unique characteristics. Roses that have stood the test of time and continue captivating enthusiasts earn a place in this prestigious collection.
Absolutely! Many Hall of Fame roses are available for cultivation, and nurseries often offer these timeless varieties. Check with local nurseries or online suppliers to find and grow these beauties in your garden.
Yes, the Rose Hall of Fame continues to grow, with new roses earning their place alongside historical classics. The induction process considers recent rose varieties demonstrating exceptional beauty, resilience, and popularity.
A Hall of Fame rose possesses outstanding qualities, including exceptional beauty, cultural significance, historical importance, and enduring popularity. These roses have demonstrated their timeless appeal and are cherished by rose enthusiasts worldwide.
While there isn’t a physical Rose Hall of Fame collection that you can visit, many public and private gardens showcase Hall of Fame roses. Explore local botanical gardens, rose gardens, or nurseries with extensive rose.
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What beautiful Hall of Fame roses are thriving in your garden? Share your favorites in the comments below!
Whether you’re a seasoned rose enthusiast or just getting started with gardening, these Hall of Fame roses weave together a vibrant tapestry of colors, fragrances, and stories. Each blooming season unfolds new chapters in the journey of these timeless beauties. By cultivating these roses, we contribute to preserving a floral legacy that will enchant generations in gardens across the globe.
