Chappeau de Napoleon
(Centifolia, 1820) – clear pink. This rose is known by two other names (R. centifolia cristata and Crested Moss) but I prefer the French
version. Napoleon’s Hat is sometimes classed as a Moss but I place it with the Centifolias because the parsley like growth isn’t really
like moss and besides it is restricted to the sepals and isn’t fragrant of balsam either. The blooms, however, are pure Centifolia looking
like a small cabbage that reflexes around the telltale button eye. The fragrance is said to among the best within the Old Garden Rose
group. High praise indeed! It is a complex blend of Damask with a spiciness reminiscent of the Gallica Roses. Growth habit is medium-tall and asymmetrical. Training and support will be needed to keep the shrub shapely. Foliage is on the sparse side so this rose is probably best grown as a collectors item. Winter hardy to zone 5. Once blooming. Recommended by Luvaduck in Toronto.
On to Petite de Hollande
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