Species roses grow on their own roots and many are hardy for our growing area without requiring winter protection. Species and shrub roses to consider include Rosa blanda , Rosa eglanteria , Rosa foetida , and Rosa rugosa . Old garden roses or simply old roses are those varieties created before 1867. This year was established by the American Rose Society to commemorate the introduction of the first hybrid tea rose. All roses introduced after 1867 are considered to be modern roses.
Old roses are very fragrant and offer a wide variety of growth habits.
Rosa gallica grows just 3 to 4 feet forming a nice compact bush. Rosa alba varieties may grow 6 to 9 feet in height. Modern roses are the most common type of rose found at the garden center or nursery. Most are grafted onto a hardy root stock and must be protected from winter injury. The hybrid tea is the most popular rose grown.