Ramblers are very hardy and rapid-growing, as much as 20 feet in a season. Climbing hybrid teas do not bloom as continuously as do their bush parents, but flowers and foliage usually are identical. Old roses include all rose groups developed before the introduction of the first hybrid tea rose. These plants are grown for their historic interest, color, fragrance and ability to survive adverse conditions. Old roses are divided into groups descended from European roses and those descended at least in part from Chinese roses.
European roses are almost all spring bloomers that have one flush of bloom a year.
Their colors are primarily whites, pinks, reds and purples. Many are extremely fragrant. They are quite cold hardy, but may not adapt well to hot areas. European roses include gallicas, damasks, albas, centifolias, and moss roses. Gallicas are stocky, upright shrubs with fine prickles and deep green foliage.