Veilchenblau was introduced in 1909 with claims that here, at last, was the blue rose. Alas, it is not blue: rather, the flowers open purple and pass through shades of lilac and mauve and then to pale lilac grey – but, in that last stage, it is as close to blue as any rose gets. I am assured you can, sometimes, see the odd old flower that could be described as blue without bending the truth too far. I am yet to see it.
The first rose of the season is here! Crépuscule is a favourite of many and that is how I came to have it. My sister, Vickie, was singing its praises, my ears pricked up and, before I knew it, I had one.
I have read that in warm climates, no climbing rose enjoys more acclaim than Crépuscule. But I am not a big fan of Crépuscule. It only has one fault but it is one that really annoys me – it holds its dead flowers on the bush which makes it look untidy. In all other ways, Crépuscule is a perfect rose. Continue reading
I bought Mutabilis as an ex-colleague of mine, Jude, told me it was her favourite rose. With so many roses out there, to be someone’s favourite makes a very special rose. Continue reading
Passion Fruit Garden 