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 Alba roses are the result of a cross between Damask roses and the Dog Rose (Rosa canine). Grown during the Middle Ages, Alba roses were brought to England by the Romans. As a group, these roses are hardy shrubs with exceptional form in habit and flower. Though not many different Albas are offered commercially, do plant one or several, for Albas  are tough plants which thrive with less than ideal
conditions (even being somewhat shade tolerant). Albas bloom once a year, in spring.Flowers tend to be white or some variation thereof, whether it be cream or light pink. The flowers have a delicate appearance, which sit well on a durable, tough plant. Disease resistance is generally excellent, as is cold hardiness. Fragrance is normally excellent, and foliage has a gray-green tint which complements the softness of the flowers and contrasts nicely with darker evergreens. Albas tend to be larger shrubs, many growing six feet tall and wide or more. As mentioned earlier, Albas do better then most roses in the shade tolerance category, but don't take a pound of medicine when an ounce is prescribed. Light shade is fine, with perhaps heavier shade tolerated when the afternoon sun beats down. Albas are tremendous roses, famed for their softness of bloom and their ability to withstand tough conditions. Pamper them just a little, and the rewards will be great. |
