Hybrid Perpetual (HP) / Climbing Hybrid Perpetual (Cl HP)
Hybrid Perpetual roses are a category of roses that were developed in the mid-19th century by crossing Old European roses with Asian roses. They were bred to improve upon the flowering and hardiness of Old Garden roses, while retaining their classic charm and fragrance.
The flowers of Hybrid Perpetual roses are large and double-flowered, often in shades of pink, red, and purple. They typically have a strong fragrance and bloom in early summer, with a second flush of blooms in late summer or early fall. The foliage of these roses is typically dark green and leathery, providing a striking contrast to the colorful blooms.
Hybrid Perpetual roses were once among the most popular varieties of roses, particularly in Victorian-era gardens. Many famous rose breeders of the 19th century, such as Jacques-Louis Descemet, Victor Verdier, and Jean-Baptiste Guillot, developed new and improved varieties of Hybrid Perpetual roses.
Today, Hybrid Perpetual roses are less commonly grown than many other types of roses, but they are still appreciated for their classic beauty and fragrance. They have won numerous awards and accolades over the years, and continue to be beloved by rose enthusiasts and gardeners around the world.