Petulant Diva

Some roses produce such gorgeous flowers you don't care if they're a little demanding. Some are stingy, blooming only three weeks in the spring. Others may require companions to camouflage their ugly knees. Nevertheless, their giant, cabbagey flowers have inspired everything from Old Masters' paintings to wallpaper and fabrics. Members of the Gallica, Alba, Moss, Centifolia and potently aromatic Damask classes may seem aloof and arrogant at first blush, but plant them, and let them sing. Every garden needs some diva drama.

About the author: Mike Shoup is the owner of the Antique Rose Emporium. This month’s article is taken from his new book, Empress of the Garden. Visit his company’s Brenham and San Antonio display gardens for endless ideas on landscaping with roses. To order roses online, visit www.weAREroses.com.