The Enigma That is Darlow

We've talked about what a garden rose is, we've begun talking about caring for them and now it's time for the roots to hit the hole and recommend some garden roses.

The first is easy.  Darlow's Enigma.  I first became aware of this rose when I lived and gardened in Los Angeles, CA.  Quite a few people I knew grew it, raved about how easy and how versatile it is.  When I moved to South Carolina I was finally able to plant one at the old nursery property and boy are they right.

Rarely getting disease for me and constantly in flower Darlow, is a great Garden Rose for those who aren't sure what they are.  I group it with what I call "Starter Roses".  Starter Roses are ones I recommend for the gardener who has given up on roses or simply stopped growing them, because I know these roses will make them successful.

Darlow mounds itself into a shrub about 5' x 5' and can get larger if you let it.  I know many who grow it as a climber along a fence.  I can easily see Darlow growing as a hedge stretching out in a drift of white blossoms perched atop its lovely green foliage.  This is a very versatile rose so let your imagination run with it.

Here are some details and where to buy it.

Darlow's Enigma. Hybrid Musk, white, Zone 5 - Introduced in 1991, Hybridizer Unknown - Growth Size & Characteristics are: large shrub (5'+), moderate climber (10'-15'), fragrant, repeat flowering, single petalled, shade tolerant.

Purchase From
Rogue Valley Roses - United States
Rozenkwekerij de Bierkreek - The Netherlands
Roses Unlimited - United States
Burlington Rose Nursery - United States