One of the most beautiful and ancient species roses is the Apothecary Rose, "Rosa gallica officinalis". Deep pink, semi-double 4-inch flowers with a moderate fragrance bloom mid-summer on compact 3-3 ½ foot canes. This rose is hardy to Zone 3. A striped crème and deep pink sport called "Rosa gallica versicolor" is also available.
Another old species rose is "Rosa eglanteria", Shakespeare's Sweetbriar rose. This rose flowers early in the season, displaying light to medium pink blooms, 1-2 inches across, with a sweet old-fashioned rose scent. Shrubs can grow as tall as 10-15 feet with support and are hardy to Zone 4. Several hybrids of this rose have been developed, but some are susceptible to mildew and black spot.
A dainty single yellow rose, "Rosa spinosissima", grows 2-6 feet tall, is hardy to Zone 3 and has a light rose fragrance. This is one of the few yellow roses that's not a hybrid tea, and is quite hardy.
Without a doubt "Rosa multiflora" is the toughest rose on earth. You can't kill it if you try, and Lord knows I've tried. Once sold as a "living fence", this invasive member of the family is so hardy and disease free it can take over an entire lot. When in bloom it's lovely, covered with tiny single fragrant flowers that grow in clusters. The blooms are followed by tiny hips loved by birds. A huge flock of Cedar Waxwings routinely visit me every January, staying around for a couple of days while they strip the shrubs of all hips. In summer a pair of Cardinals nest in the dense growth, feeling protected. Juncos and sparrows also call these shrubs home.
If you choose to grow this species rose, be prepared to hack it back severely every year to keep it in check. It may be hard to find in nurseries. Due to its invasive nature it's fallen out of favor, but is easily grown from cuttings. I'll be glad to give you all you want!
