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 Damasks were introduced to Europe around 1250, and are vigorous, strong plants which feature rich pink (with some whites thrown in) flowers which bloom 
once per season. Don't let lack of remontancy stop you from including a Damask or two as
they are lovely and historic roses, attractive in bloom and out.Prior to the introduction of the Teas and Chinas from the East, roses which flowered more than once a season were unknown...except for one rose, Autumn Damask, which might put on a second, smaller display in fall. Damasks originated from a natural hybrid (a cross in the wild) between a Gallica and Rosa phoenicea, a species rose. The parents, Gallica and Rosa phoenicea, differ greatly in habit, and thus, Damasks as a class exhibit great diversity from one variety to the next. Describing Damasks as a whole is unfair to some of the parts, but in general, Damasks are once blooming (remember Autumn Damask which may bloom more than once as season?), tall (5-6 feet or more), with relatively flexible canes which lead to an elegant demeanor. Leaves are disease resistant, and many Damasks are hardy to -20 degrees Fahrenheit. |
