When searching for the best climbing roses, you’ll find options that vary in fragrance, hardiness, bloom frequency, and ease of growth. The Heirloom English Climbing Roses – The Pilgrim® stands out as the top overall choice thanks to its robust performance and classic beauty. For those prioritizing fragrance, the Wollerton Old Hall™ offers exquisite scent, while the Zéphirine Drouhin impresses with its thornless, easy-to-manage branches. However, tradeoffs often involve balancing bloom longevity against maintenance needs or hardiness. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of each option, so you can find the perfect fit for your garden.
Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked climbing roses combine strong hardiness with abundant, long-lasting blooms.
- Fragrance was a key differentiator, with some varieties offering more intense scent profiles.
- Ease of growth and maintenance varied, making some roses better suited for beginners than others.
- Many roses excel in specific hardiness zones, so climate compatibility is essential.
- Price and size of the plants influenced value, with mature, well-established plants often costing more but offering quicker results.
| Heirloom English Climbing Roses – The Pilgrim® – Live Own Root Plant for Outdoor Garden |  | Best Overall Climbing Rose for Fragrance and Longevity | Hardiness Zones: 5-10 | Expected Plant Height: 9 Feet | Soil Type: Sandy Soil | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Heirloom Floribunda Roses, Parfuma Earth Angel – Live Own Root Plant for Outdoor Garden |  | Best Value for Continuous Fragrance and Compact Growth | Type: Floribunda Rose | Variety: Parfuma Earth Angel | Root: Own Root | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Heirloom English Climbing Roses, Live Own Root Plant for Outdoor Garden, Wollerton Old Hall™, Very Fragrant, Hardiness Zones: 5-9 |  | Best for Large, Fragrant Climbing Roses with Classic Appeal | Type: Climbing Rose | Variety: Wollerton Old Hall™ | Age: 12-16 months | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Seven Sisters Climbing Rambler Rose – Heirloom Pink Fragrant Live Plant – 4 Inch Pot |  | Best for Low-Maintenance, Resilient Gardeners | Type: Climbing Rambler Rose | Color: Pink | Bloom Season: Spring | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ma Cherie Roses – Cecille Brunner Climbing Rose Live Plant, 2 Quart Pot |  | Best for Vigorous Growth and Easy Transplanting | Plant Type: Climbing Rose | Variety: Cecille Brunner | Pot Size: 2 Quart | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Proven Winners 2 Gal. Rise Up Ringo Climbing Rose Shrub |  | Best Overall for Versatile and Low-Maintenance Climbing Roses | USDA zones: 4-9 | Mature size: 24-36 inches W x 36-60 inches H | Sun exposure: Full sun to partial shade | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Heirloom Climbing Roses, Raspberry Cream Twirl™ – Live Own Root Plant for Outdoor Garden |  | Best for Continual Blooming and Light Fragrance | Variety: Raspberry Cream Twirl™ | Type: Climbing Rose | Age: 12-16 months | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Heirloom Climbing Roses, Polka®, Very Fragrant, Hardiness Zones 5-10, Continual Blooming |  | Best for Highly Fragrant and Long-Season Blooms | Hardiness Zones: 5-10 | Expected Blooming Period: Spring to Fall | Sunlight Exposure: Full Sun | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Heirloom Climbing Roses, Live Own Root Plant for Outdoor Garden, Cloud 10™, Moderately Fragrant, Hardiness Zones 5-10 |  | Best for Pollinator Attraction and Moderate Fragrance | Hardiness Zones: 5-10 | Expected Blooming Period: Spring to Fall | Sunlight Exposure: Full Sun | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Zéphirine Drouhin Climbing Rose, Thornless Pink Flowers, #3 Container |  | Best for Thornless, Repeat Blooming Rose with Fragrance | Expected Blooming Period: Fall, with repeated cycles | Sunlight Exposure: Full Sun | Expected Plant Height: 8-12 feet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ma Cherie Roses – New Dawn Climber – 1 Gallon Rose – Live Plant |  | Best Overall Climbing Rose for Easy Maintenance and Vigorous Growth | Size: 1 Gallon | Plant Type: Live Plant | Fragrance: Moderate | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Peggy Martin Climbing Rose – Live Plant (1 QT) |  | Best for Long-Season Blooms with Minimal Thorns | Mature Height: 10-15 Feet | Mature Width: 12-15 Feet | Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ma Cherie Roses – Don Juan Red Climbing Roses Live Plants, 2 Quart Pot |  | Best for Year-Round, Vibrant Red Blooms with Fragrance | Plant Type: Climbing Rose | Color: Dark Red | Bloom Size: Large | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Heirloom Climbing Roses, Arborose Florentina – Live Own Root Plant for Outdoor Garden |  | Best for Continuous Blooming with Moderate Fragrance and Adaptability | Type: Climbing Rose | Variety: Arborose Florentina | Size: 7′ x 3′ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Heirloom Climbing Roses – Pretty in Pink Eden Climber® – Live Own Root Plant |  | Best for Pink Blooms with Repeat Flowering and Hardy Zones | Type: Climbing Rose | Color: Pink | Expected Plant Height: 10-11+ feet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Heirloom English Climbing Roses – The Pilgrim® – Live Own Root Plant for Outdoor Garden
This pick stands out as the strongest all-around choice thanks to its exceptional fragrance and consistent blooming, making it ideal for gardeners who want a classic English rose experience. Unlike the Wollerton Old Hall™ or Parfuma Earth Angel, which are also fragrant, The Pilgrim® offers a longer blooming period and a mature, healthy plant at delivery, reducing the waiting time for blooms. However, its large mature size up to 12 feet requires ample space and full sun, which could be a drawback for smaller gardens. Compared to Rambler roses like Seven Sisters, it offers a more refined bloom but needs more maintenance and space. This is perfect for those seeking a reliable, heirloom-quality climbing rose with a beautiful scent but who are prepared for its size and care needs.
Pros:- Exceptionally fragrant with continual blooming throughout the season
- Arrives as a healthy, mature plant in a manageable container
- Suitable for zones 5-10, adaptable to various climates
- Guaranteed quality with a full heirloom guarantee
Cons:- May arrive partially defoliated due to shipping
- Size at maturity can reach up to 12 feet, requiring space
Best for: Gardeners looking for a fragrant, long-blooming climbing rose that adds timeless charm to larger outdoor spaces.
Not ideal for: Small gardens or indoor growers, as its mature size may be overwhelming and it requires full sun and space.
- Hardiness Zones:5-10
- Expected Plant Height:9 Feet
- Soil Type:Sandy Soil
- Moisture Needs:Moderate Watering
- Container Size:1 Gallon
- Expected Blooming Period:Spring to Fall
Our verdict“This rose makes the most sense for gardeners seeking a fragrant, heirloom-quality climbing rose with proven durability in larger gardens.”
Heirloom Floribunda Roses, Parfuma Earth Angel – Live Own Root Plant for Outdoor Garden
Compared with larger climbing roses, Parfuma Earth Angel offers a more manageable size suitable for smaller gardens and containers, arriving at 12-15 inches tall and reaching around 5 feet at maturity. Its continual bloom and strong fragrance make it an excellent choice for those who want frequent color and scent without the size commitment of larger climbers like Wollerton Old Hall™. The tradeoff is that it takes time to reach full height, and its smaller size may limit its impact in large landscape designs. The plant’s hardiness zones 5-9 broaden its appeal, but it’s less suited for colder or very hot climates outside this range.
Pros:- Exceptionally fragrant with continual blooming
- Arrives healthy and partially defoliated for shipping
- Suitable for zones 5-9, versatile in various climates
Cons:- Takes time to grow to its full size
- Partial defoliation on arrival may require some patience
Best for: Gardeners seeking a fragrant, easy-maintenance rose with a smaller footprint for borders or containers.
Not ideal for: Large-scale garden installations or those wanting a dramatic, tall climbing rose, as it remains relatively compact.
- Type:Floribunda Rose
- Variety:Parfuma Earth Angel
- Root:Own Root
- Container Size:1 gallon
- Approximate Size:5′ x 4′
- Hardiness Zones:5-9
Our verdict“This rose suits gardeners who prioritize fragrance and ease of care in a smaller, more manageable plant.”
Heirloom English Climbing Roses, Live Own Root Plant for Outdoor Garden, Wollerton Old Hall™, Very Fragrant, Hardiness Zones: 5-9
Wollerton Old Hall™ stands out for its classic English rose fragrance and vigorous growth, reaching up to 12 feet tall. It’s a strong contender for those who want a large, fragrant climbing rose that blooms continually. Compared to The Pilgrim®, Wollerton Old Hall™ offers a similar fragrant profile but can be larger and requires careful zone selection for winter survival. Its shipping partially defoliated helps ensure healthy growth, but the plant’s size and zone requirements mean it’s best suited for larger, well-prepared gardens. While it excels in aroma and bloom longevity, it demands space and consistent care, making it less ideal for smaller or container gardens.
Pros:- Very fragrant with continual blooming throughout the season
- Arrives healthy in a 1-gallon container
- Suitable for zones 5-9, with a large mature size
Cons:- Size at maturity can be quite large (up to 12 feet tall)
- Requires zone-appropriate winter protection
Best for: Gardeners with ample space seeking a large, fragrant, heirloom climbing rose that makes a statement.
Not ideal for: Urban gardeners or those with limited space and less experience in winter zone management.
- Type:Climbing Rose
- Variety:Wollerton Old Hall™
- Age:12-16 months
- Container Size:1 gallon
- Hardiness Zones:5-9
- Approximate Size:8′-12′ x 3′-4′
Our verdict“Ideal for those with space and experience, seeking a large, fragrant, heirloom climbing rose that exudes classic charm.”
Seven Sisters Climbing Rambler Rose – Heirloom Pink Fragrant Live Plant – 4 Inch Pot
This hardy rambler rose offers a burst of fragrant, double pink flowers in late spring, with clusters that transition from carmine to mauve and white. It’s resilient and easy to grow, making it suitable for garden enthusiasts who want reliable, vibrant color without intensive care. Unlike the more delicate English roses, Seven Sisters thrives in USDA zones 6-9 and tolerates various soil types, but it’s not designed for cold climates outside zone 6. Its smaller pot size means it’s ideal for transplanting into larger beds or containers, but it may require regular pruning to maintain shape and health. The main tradeoff is that it blooms only in spring, unlike the continuous bloomers listed above.
Pros:- Fragrant, double pink flowers in spring
- Resilient and easy to grow with minimal fuss
- Tolerant of various soil types and resistant to common problems
Cons:- Blooms only in spring, not continually
- Requires regular pruning for best shape and health
Best for: Beginners or busy gardeners seeking a resilient, fragrant climber that’s low maintenance and suitable for moderate zones.
Not ideal for: Gardeners wanting year-round bloom or those in zones colder than 6, as it lacks winter hardiness outside its zone range.
- Type:Climbing Rambler Rose
- Color:Pink
- Bloom Season:Spring
- Plant Size:4 Inch Pot
- USDA Zones:6-9
- Care:Full sun, well-draining soil, prune after blooms
Our verdict“This rose is perfect for gardeners wanting a hardy, fragrant climber that performs reliably with minimal fuss in moderate zones.”
Ma Cherie Roses – Cecille Brunner Climbing Rose Live Plant, 2 Quart Pot
This Cecille Brunner climbing rose arrives in a healthy 2-quart pot, offering vigorous, lush growth with a moderate pink fragrance. It’s a straightforward choice for those who want a quick-start climbing rose that’s ready for transplanting and immediate outdoor planting. Compared to the larger, more mature The Pilgrim® or Wollerton Old Hall™, this plant is younger and less established but compensates with ease of transplanting and vigorous growth. Its limited care instructions and uncertain bloom size make it less ideal for those seeking detailed aesthetic control or specific bloom colors. It’s best suited for gardeners who want to establish a climbing rose quickly without fuss.
Pros:- Healthy and vigorous growth
- Moderate pink fragrance
- Comes with a cotton rose bag for easy transplanting
Cons:- Limited information on bloom size or color intensity
- No specific care instructions provided
Best for: Gardeners seeking a healthy, vigorous climber with easy transplanting and moderate fragrance.
Not ideal for: Those looking for detailed blooming characteristics or a mature plant with guaranteed flowering performance.
- Plant Type:Climbing Rose
- Variety:Cecille Brunner
- Pot Size:2 Quart
- Fragrance:Moderate Pink
- Growth Habit:Vigorous
Our verdict“Ideal for gardeners wanting a vigorous, easy-to-establish climbing rose that’s ready to grow quickly outdoors.”
Proven Winners 2 Gal. Rise Up Ringo Climbing Rose Shrub
This option stands out for its adaptability across USDA zones 4-9, making it a reliable choice for a wide range of gardeners. Compared with the more fragrant and showier Polka®, Rise Up Ringo offers easier care and less fuss, especially since it ships dormant, which can delay visual appeal. While it’s low maintenance and suitable for containers or landscape planting, the tradeoff is that you won’t see foliage upon arrival, and it loses leaves in winter. This pick makes the most sense for gardeners wanting a resilient, easy-care climbing rose that doesn’t demand constant attention.
Pros:- Suitable for a wide range of USDA zones (4-9)
- Low maintenance and shipped dormant for plant health
- Versatile for containers and landscaping
Cons:- Ships without foliage, delaying visual appeal
- Deciduous, losing leaves in winter
Best for: Homeowners seeking a hardy, low-maintenance climbing rose that performs well in various climates and can be used flexibly in landscape or container gardens.
Not ideal for: Gardeners desiring an intensely fragrant or highly ornamental rose with immediate foliage, as this rose ships dormant and may not offer instant visual impact.
- USDA zones:4-9
- Mature size:24-36 inches W x 36-60 inches H
- Sun exposure:Full sun to partial shade
- Deciduous:Yes
- Botanical Name:Rise Up Ringo Rosa x ‘ChewGateway’
- Usage:Containers, landscapes, accents
- Spacing:24 inches
- Dormant shipping:Yes
Our verdict“This rose is best for those wanting a hardy, adaptable climbing rose with minimal care requirements.”
Heirloom Climbing Roses, Raspberry Cream Twirl™ – Live Own Root Plant for Outdoor Garden
This climbing rose excels in providing ongoing blossoms during the growing season, making it ideal for gardeners seeking consistent color and charm. Compared with the highly fragrant Polka®, Raspberry Cream Twirl™ offers a softer scent and a more casual, lush appearance. It arrives at a manageable 12-15 inches tall, with the potential to reach over 10 feet, but the initial size may require patience as it grows. The necessity for zone 6-10 limits its use for colder climates, and plants may arrive partially defoliated, requiring time to reach full vigor. This rose suits those who prioritize continuous blooms over immediate lushness or fragrance.
Pros:- Blooms continually throughout the season
- Lightly fragrant flowers
- Suitable for zones 6-10
Cons:- Plants may arrive partially defoliated
- Initial size smaller than mature height
Best for: Gardeners in zones 6-10 looking for a reliably blooming climbing rose with a gentle fragrance and a casual aesthetic.
Not ideal for: Cold climate growers in zones below 6 or those seeking a highly fragrant, instantly lush plant, as it takes time to reach full size and blooms are mild in scent.
- Variety:Raspberry Cream Twirl™
- Type:Climbing Rose
- Age:12-16 months
- Container Size:1 gallon
- Hardiness Zones:6-10
- Approximate Size:10-11+ ft x 4-5 ft
- Shipping Height:12-15 inches
Our verdict“This rose is perfect for those wanting persistent blooms with a soft scent in moderate climates.”
Heirloom Climbing Roses, Polka®, Very Fragrant, Hardiness Zones 5-10, Continual Blooming
This variety is distinguished by its exceptional fragrance and reliable, season-long blooming. Compared with the more subdued Raspberry Cream Twirl™, Polka® offers a more intense scent and a more vigorous growth habit, although it still arrives in a small 1-gallon container, requiring patience for full height. Suitable for zones 5-10, it blooms from spring through fall, attracting pollinators along with its floral display. However, the plant may arrive partially defoliated, and its smaller initial size means you’ll need to wait for it to mature. This rose is ideal for those who prioritize fragrance and continuous flowering over immediate impact or larger initial size.
Pros:- Very fragrant with continuous blooming
- Suitable for zones 5-10
- Arrives healthy in a 1-gallon container
Cons:- Plants may be partially defoliated at shipping
- Requires patience to reach full height
Best for: Gardeners wanting a very fragrant climbing rose with long bloom periods and zones 5-10 compatibility.
Not ideal for: Those in colder zones or seeking instant full-sized plants, as it needs time to develop and blooms season-long.
- Hardiness Zones:5-10
- Expected Blooming Period:Spring to Fall
- Sunlight Exposure:Full Sun
- Expected Plant Height:9 Feet
- Moisture Needs:Moderate Watering
- Container Size:1 Gallon
- Plant Size at Shipping:12-15 inches tall
Our verdict“This rose is best for fragrance lovers who can wait for it to reach full size and enjoy long, aromatic blooms.”
Heirloom Climbing Roses, Live Own Root Plant for Outdoor Garden, Cloud 10™, Moderately Fragrant, Hardiness Zones 5-10
This climbing rose combines continuous flowering with moderate fragrance, making it an attractive choice for pollinator gardens. In comparison to the highly fragrant Polka®, Cloud 10™ offers a balanced scent and a slightly shorter mature height, reaching 7-8 feet. It arrives in a 1-gallon container at 12-15 inches tall, which means it will need some patience to reach full stature. Its moderate fragrance and pollinator appeal make it suitable for gardeners who want a functional, garden-friendly climber that attracts beneficial insects without overwhelming scent. It’s less ideal for those seeking intensely fragrant or immediately lush plants.
Pros:- Blooms throughout the season
- Attracts pollinators
- Moderate fragrance suitable for sensitive gardeners
Cons:- Arrives partially defoliated
- Requires patience to reach full height
Best for: Gardeners who want a pollinator-friendly climbing rose with moderate scent and manageable growth in zones 5-10.
Not ideal for: Those prioritizing highly fragrant blooms or instant full-sized plants, as it takes time to mature and has only moderate fragrance.
- Hardiness Zones:5-10
- Expected Blooming Period:Spring to Fall
- Sunlight Exposure:Full Sun
- Expected Plant Height:7-8 feet
- Moisture Needs:Moderate Watering
- Container Size:1 Gallon
- Approximate Size:7-8 ft x 4-5 ft
Our verdict“This rose suits gardeners seeking a pollinator-attracting, moderately fragrant climbing rose with a balanced size and ease of care.”
Zéphirine Drouhin Climbing Rose, Thornless Pink Flowers, #3 Container
This climbing rose is notable for its thornless stems and sweetly scented, loosely formed pink flowers, making it a favorite for easier handling and pruning. Compared to the more fragrant Polka® or the pollinator-attracting Cloud 10™, Zéphirine Drouhin offers a repeat bloom cycle mainly in fall but blooms more frequently throughout the growing season, especially in full sun. Its thornless stems reduce the risk of injury, appealing to gardeners who want a more manageable climbing rose. The plant arrives in a 3-gallon container, ready to plant, but it is dormant in late fall and winter, which might delay immediate visual impact. It’s ideal for gardeners seeking a fragrant, thornless climber with good repeat-blooming ability.
Pros:- Thornless stems for safer handling
- Repeats blooming throughout the season
- Sweetly scented pink flowers
Cons:- Dormant in late fall/winter with no leaves
- Requires regular fertilization and care for best bloom performance
Best for: Gardeners wanting a thornless, fragrant climbing rose that blooms repeatedly and is easy to prune and handle.
Not ideal for: Those looking for immediate lush foliage or blooms during winter, as the plant is dormant and may need time to establish.
- Expected Blooming Period:Fall, with repeated cycles
- Sunlight Exposure:Full Sun
- Expected Plant Height:8-12 feet
- Moisture Needs:Moderate Watering
- Item Weight:12 Pounds
- Plant Size at Shipping:12-15 inches tall
Our verdict“This rose is ideal for those seeking a thornless, fragrant climber with reliable repeat blooms and manageable growth.”
Ma Cherie Roses – New Dawn Climber – 1 Gallon Rose – Live Plant
This climbing rose stands out as the best overall choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, vigorous performer. Its easy-to-grow nature and beautiful light pink blooms make it a reliable option, especially compared to more delicate varieties like the Heirloom Eden Climber®. It arrives ready to plant, with the benefit of being grown on own roots, which enhances its durability. However, its fast growth means it needs regular pruning and support structures like a trellis or fence, which might be a drawback for those with limited space or less time for upkeep. The moderate fragrance may also not appeal to fragrance enthusiasts. Ideal for gardeners who want a reliable, fast-growing climbing rose without fuss, but not suited for those seeking a highly fragrant or slow-growing variety.
Pros:- Easy to grow and maintain
- Vigorous growth with beautiful blooms
- Arrives ready to plant in own root form
Cons:- Requires support like a trellis or fence
- Moderate fragrance may not suit everyone
- Grows very fast, needing regular pruning
Best for: Gardeners who want a vigorous, easy-care climbing rose that quickly fills vertical space.
Not ideal for: Those seeking a highly fragrant or slow-growing climbing rose, or gardeners with limited space for support structures.
- Size:1 Gallon
- Plant Type:Live Plant
- Fragrance:Moderate
- Bloom Color:Light Pink
- Growth Habit:Climbing
- Grown On:Own root
Our verdict“A dependable choice for gardeners wanting a vigorous, low-fuss climbing rose with attractive light pink blooms.”
Peggy Martin Climbing Rose – Live Plant (1 QT)
Compared with the New Dawn, the Peggy Martin Climbing Rose offers a more thornless, easy-to-maintain experience, producing abundant blush pink flowers from spring to fall. Its vigorous growth over 10-15 feet makes it ideal for large trellises or garden walls, especially for gardeners who value extended bloom periods. While it ships in a fabric grow bag rather than a nursery pot, this doesn’t diminish its hardiness or flowering potential. However, its height and spread mean it requires ample support and space, which could be a challenge for smaller gardens. Full sun is necessary for optimal flowering, making it less suitable for shaded spots. This pick is perfect for those seeking a nearly thornless rose with extended blooming and minimal maintenance, but less so for gardeners with limited space or shade.
Pros:- Produces abundant, long-lasting blush pink flowers
- Very few thorns for easier maintenance
- Suitable for trellises and garden walls
- Vigorous growth with minimal care
Cons:- Ships in a fabric grow bag, not a pot
- Requires full sun for best flowering
- Can grow quite tall, needing support
Best for: Gardeners wanting a vigorous, low-thorn climbing rose with a long, prolific bloom season.
Not ideal for: Those with small gardens or shaded locations, as it needs full sun and space to flourish.
- Mature Height:10-15 Feet
- Mature Width:12-15 Feet
- Exposure:Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Hardiness Zones:4-9
- Blooming Period:Spring to Summer
- Color:Pink
Our verdict“Ideal for gardeners seeking a thornless, long-blooming climbing rose suited to large, sunny spaces.”
Ma Cherie Roses – Don Juan Red Climbing Roses Live Plants, 2 Quart Pot
Compared to the lighter pink New Dawn, the Don Juan Red Climbing Rose makes a bold statement with its deep red, large, fragrant flowers blooming nearly year-round. Its vigorous growth on own roots means rapid establishment and large, vibrant blooms throughout the season. However, it requires well-drained, suitable planting conditions and may have seasonal blooming depending on climate, unlike some varieties with more extended or consistent flowering. The strong fragrance adds a sensory dimension that the lighter pink varieties lack. This rose is best for those who want a dramatic, fragrant focal point but may be less suitable for gardeners in cooler, wetter climates. Perfect for lovers of bold, fragrant red roses who can provide optimal planting conditions.
Pros:- Vigorous growth and fast maturity
- Large, fragrant, year-round blooms
- Grown on own roots for durability
- Includes complimentary cotton rose bag
Cons:- Requires specific planting conditions
- Potentially seasonal blooming depending on climate
Best for: Gardeners seeking a vigorous, fragrant red climbing rose with year-round blooms and fast growth.
Not ideal for: Those in climates with poor drainage or seeking a more delicately flowering or less fragrant variety.
- Plant Type:Climbing Rose
- Color:Dark Red
- Bloom Size:Large
- Blooming Period:Year Round
- Pot Size:2 Quart
- Root Type:Own Root
Our verdict“Ideal for gardeners wanting a bold, fragrant red climbing rose that quickly becomes a focal point in the garden.”
Heirloom Climbing Roses, Arborose Florentina – Live Own Root Plant for Outdoor Garden
The Arborose Florentina excels in offering continual blooming from a healthy, mature plant, making it a strong contender for gardeners who prefer ongoing floral display without long dormant periods. Its moderate fragrance adds appeal without overwhelming. Compared to Don Juan, it may not produce as large or as intensely fragrant flowers but compensates with steady, season-long blooms. Its adaptability to zones 5-10 broadens its appeal, though it arrives smaller and may need some defoliation to settle in. This variety is well-suited for gardeners who want a reliable, disease-resistant climber with a consistent floral show. Less suitable for those seeking highly fragrant or large blooms, or in colder zones outside 5-10.
Pros:- Continual blooming throughout the season
- Moderately fragrant flowers
- Suitable for zones 5-10
- Arrives as a healthy, mature plant
Cons:- May be partially defoliated for shipping
- Size at shipping smaller than mature size
- Requires proper zone for best growth
Best for: Gardeners wanting a reliable, continually blooming climber with moderate fragrance and adaptability to various climates.
Not ideal for: Those looking for highly fragrant or large-flowered roses, or in zones outside 5-10.
- Type:Climbing Rose
- Variety:Arborose Florentina
- Size:7′ x 3′
- Hardiness Zones:5-10
- Flowering:Continual Blooming
- Fragrance:Moderately Fragrant
Our verdict“Great for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, season-long flowering climber with moderate fragrance and broad zone adaptability.”
Heirloom Climbing Roses – Pretty in Pink Eden Climber® – Live Own Root Plant
The Eden Climber® impresses with its pretty pink flowers and repeat blooming from spring through fall, making it a charming addition to outdoor gardens. Its light fragrance adds subtle appeal, and being grown on own roots ensures vigorous growth. Compared to the boldness of
, Eden Climber® offers a softer, more delicate aesthetic suitable for gardeners who prefer pink hues and a continuous floral display. It arrives as a small plant, often partially defoliated, requiring full sun and regular watering for peak performance. Its size at maturity of 10-11+ feet makes it suitable for larger vertical spaces but less so for small gardens. This variety suits those seeking a repeat bloomer with a gentle pink palette and reliable performance across zones 5-9. Pros:- Beautiful pink color with light fragrance
- Repeat blooming from spring to fall
- Arrives as a healthy, live own root plant
- Suitable for zones 5-9
Cons:- Plant may be partially defoliated upon arrival
- Requires full sun and regular watering
- Size at maturity may need ample garden space
Best for: Gardeners wanting a soft pink climber with reliable, repeat flowering and good cold hardiness.
Not ideal for: Those seeking highly fragrant or large-flowered roses, or gardeners with limited space for a tall climber.
- Type:Climbing Rose
- Color:Pink
- Expected Plant Height:10-11+ feet
- Size at Arrival:12-15 inches
- Blooming Period:Spring to Fall
- Hardiness Zones:5-9
Our verdict“A gentle, pink climbing rose ideal for gardeners wanting reliable, repeat blooms in zones 5-9 with a soft aesthetic.”
How We Picked
To determine the best climbing roses, I evaluated each variety based on several critical factors: performance in a range of hardiness zones, ease of growth, bloom frequency and size, fragrance, and overall plant health. I also considered customer reviews for real-world reliability, as well as value for the price and growth habit. The ranking reflects a balance between these qualities, prioritizing those that offer consistent, beautiful results with manageable maintenance. Roses that excelled in multiple categories, especially those suitable for a broad range of climates and gardening skills, earned higher positions.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Climbing Roses
Choosing the best climbing rose involves more than just selecting a pretty flower. It’s important to consider your local climate, the rose’s growth habit, and your willingness to maintain it. Properly assessing these factors can help ensure you select a rose that will thrive and provide beauty for years to come.Climate Compatibility and Hardiness Zones
Matching a rose’s hardiness zone with your local climate is fundamental. Some varieties, like the Zéphirine Drouhin, are more adaptable to colder zones, while others thrive in warmer areas. Choosing a rose suited to your zone reduces risks of winter damage and ongoing stress, leading to healthier, more vibrant blooms.
Blooming Habit and Frequency
Consider whether you want a rose that blooms once per season or one that flowers repeatedly throughout the growing season. Varieties like Polka® and Pretty in Pink Eden Climber® offer continual blooms, providing prolonged visual interest. Keep in mind that more frequent flowering can sometimes mean more maintenance or pruning requirements.
Fragrance and Visual Appeal
If scent matters, look for varieties like Wollerton Old Hall™ or Heirloom Pink Fragrant. However, fragrant roses sometimes have a shorter bloom period or may require extra care to maintain their scent intensity. Visual traits like color, bloom size, and form should align with your garden aesthetic.
Ease of Growth and Maintenance
Some roses, especially thornless or naturally compact varieties like Zéphirine Drouhin, are easier for beginners to manage. Others, such as vigorous rambler types, may need more support and regular pruning. Weigh your gardening experience against the growth habits of the rose to choose a manageable option.
Plant Size and Root Type
Established plants from pots can offer quicker flowering but often cost more, while bare-root or own-root plants are more economical but take longer to establish. Consider space constraints and whether you prefer a plant that will fill out quickly or one that will develop over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grow climbing roses in containers?
Yes, many climbing roses can be grown in large containers, especially varieties like Zéphirine Drouhin or Ma Cherie. Use a sturdy, tall support and ensure the container has good drainage and rich soil. Regular watering and fertilizing will be necessary to keep the plant healthy and encourage vigorous growth.
How much maintenance do climbing roses typically require?
Climbing roses generally need annual pruning to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms. Deadheading spent flowers can extend flowering periods, and some varieties benefit from winter protection in colder zones. The level of effort depends on the variety—more vigorous types may need more regular pruning and support, while disease-resistant, low-maintenance options require less attention.
What’s the best way to support climbing roses?
Support structures like trellises, arbors, or sturdy fences work well for climbing roses. It’s best to install these before planting to allow the roots to establish without interference. Training new growth along the support encourages a full, attractive structure, and tying branches loosely prevents damage and encourages airflow, reducing disease risk.
Are there any roses suitable for shaded locations?
Most climbing roses prefer full sun for optimal flowering, but some, like Zéphirine Drouhin, tolerate partial shade better. Keep in mind that less sunlight typically results in fewer blooms and weaker fragrance. For shaded areas, selecting a variety known for shade tolerance is essential to achieving a satisfactory display.
When is the best time to plant climbing roses?
The ideal planting time is early spring or fall, depending on your climate. Spring planting allows the rose to establish before summer, while fall planting gives roots time to settle before winter. Avoid planting in the heat of summer or during periods of extreme cold, which can stress the plant and hinder establishment.
Conclusion
For most gardeners, the Heirloom English Climbing Roses – The Pilgrim® offers a reliable, all-around excellent choice with its combination of hardiness, beauty, and performance, making it the best overall. Those seeking a budget-friendly option or quick results may prefer mature plants like the Proven Winners Rise Up Ringo. Beginners should consider thornless varieties such as Zéphirine Drouhin due to their ease of care. Gardeners prioritizing fragrance will find Wollerton Old Hall™ particularly appealing, while those with limited space might opt for more compact, climbing varieties like Pretty in Pink Eden Climber®. Overall, aligning your choice with your climate, garden style, and maintenance comfort will ensure your climbing roses flourish.
