Rosa centifolia - Cabbage Rose

The organic Rosa x centifolia, the hundred-leaved rose, is usually cultivated for the production of a rare and precious essential oil used in luxury perfumery. It is a large bush with a relaxed appearance, its branches bending under the weight of magnificent cabbage roses in late spring. Filled with petals of pure pink, they diffuse an unmatched, captivating fragrance, both soft and sweet, almost honey-like. Whether called Holland Rose, Provence rose or Cabbage Rose, it is a very old, historical rose bush, a robust plant that has survived through the ages, defying trends and braving climatic challenges. It will thrive in many gardens without requiring much care.

The name Hundred-leaved Rose refers to the large number of petals that make up these flowers. This rose, known since Antiquity, is a complex hybrid, probably derived from the botanical species Rosa gallica, R. moschata, R. canina and R. damascena. Possibly with a contribution from Rosa phoenicia. In the garden, the centifolia rose proves to be hardy and tolerant towards the soil, as long as it is balanced and has ample depth. 

This rose develops into a large bush with a rounded, almost weeping habit, reaching a height of 1.80m (6ft) with a spread of 1.50 m (5ft) as it produces new shoots from the stump when grown on its own roots. Its slender, very flexible, arching stems are green and covered with irregular reddish prickles, mixed with hairs or resinous glands. From late spring, in May-June depending on the climate, they bear roses that bend towards the ground due to weak flower stalks. The corollas measure 8-9cm (3-4in) in diameter, they are globular with a "hollow" centre, and composed of numerous fine and imbricate petals. Their colour is a pure and fresh pink, slightly lighter at the edges, and their powerful fragrance can be smelt several meters away. The fruits, few in number, are almost round. The foliage, greyish green, rather light, consists of leaves divided into 5 to 7 fairly large leaflets, somewhat soft and trailing. It proves to be less susceptible to rose diseases. A plant that benefits from a well-ventilated and sunny position, in a not-too-humid climate, will always be more resistant. 

Botanical roses and their close relatives are not only the parents of our modern roses, but they are also generally more robust and very reliable.  Rosa x centifolia is a fascinating rose that attracts attention in the garden with the lushness and refinement emanating from its plump roses. They are still harvested for the perfume industry. It will find its place in a small hedgerow or defensive hedge, backed by sturdy bushes that will prevent it from leaning too much under the weight of its roses. A charming rose, It will ideally be placed in the background of perennial borders that will hide its somewhat bare base and its slightly sparse foliage. Finally, it deserves to be placed near a pathway for the unique fragrance of its flowers.