Moss (M) / Climbing Moss (Cl M)

Moss roses are an old garden rose variety known for their unique feature of a moss-like growth on their sepals and buds. They are believed to have originated from natural mutations of centifolia roses and were popular in Europe in the 18th and 19th centuries. The moss-like growth on the sepals and buds of the rose is a result of glandular secretions that give the appearance of moss.

Moss roses were popularized by French hybridizers in the mid-19th century, particularly by Jacques-Louis Descemet and Philippe Noisette. They come in a range of colors, including pink, red, and white, and their flowers are generally medium-sized and full with a strong fragrance.

Some of the popular moss rose cultivars include ‘Common Moss’, ‘Old Pink Moss’, and ‘Crested Moss’. Moss roses have won several awards including the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit. Today, they are considered rare and unusual, but are still grown and cherished by rose enthusiasts around the world.