ALBA

All of the roses described on these pages grow healthily and vigorously in my garden without any spraying to combat pests or diseases. I ignore the odd nibble or splotched leaf, but toss out those roses that don't thrive on their own. The result is a much more enjoyable and environmentally friendly garden.

ALBA

Alba roses form tall upright shrubs, with gorgeous blue-grey foliage. They make a fine background hedge, particularly Celestial and Semi-plena. The blossom form and delicate colors are so wonderful for each that it is difficult to choose a favorite. And to top it off, they all have a fine fragrance. On the down side for some people is that they bloom for only 4-5 weeks, but what a show!

	CELESTIAL A fine representative of the Alba class of roses. These very ancient roses are at the top of the list for health and fragrance. With this delicately colored single, the pastel blooms are beautifully set off by the blue-gray foliage. Growing to 10 feet and up of solid shrub, Celestial makes a fine hedging plant. Health is EX
FELICITE PARMENTIER Another healthy specimen of the Alba roses dated pre 1828. It forms a smaller plant than most in its class (about 4x3), but still has the same great fragrance. A beautiful rose with its intricately packed petals and delicate coloring. Health is EX.
	GREAT MAIDEN'S BLUSH This rose is rose expert's Peter Beale's favorite Alba. It's original name of Cuisse de Nymphe (Nymph's Thigh) indicates the voluptuousness of its delicate flesh tones. Finding the original name a tad racy, the Victorians renamed it, More lax in its growth than most of the Albas but a joy in full bloom. Health is EX
SEMI-PLENA This lovely semi-double Alba has been known since the 16th century. It will grow to 10 feet or more and like Celestial, make a fine upright hedge. It's such a clean delicate white and very fragrant. Health is EX
	KONIGIN VON DANEMARK It's deep pink bloom is smaller and darker than the rest of the Albas. The bloom is fully double with a great fragrance. Health is EX