Tour de Malakoff
(Centifolia, unknown parentage, 1857) – vivid magenta purple shaded smoky lavender on the outer
petals. The large, blousy 4 inch blooms are cupped and crammed full of petals. While some may
consider the color garish it does make quite a statement in the landscape and blends well with
other purple colored flowers. The fragrance is very strong and complex, combining several distinct
rose scents into a harmonious whole. The small leaves are smooth and show good disease resistance
against black spot although I’ve read reports of mildew susceptibility in arid climates. The growth habit
is bushy and tall, capable of reaching 8 feet or more. It is well suited to training as a pillar rose or low
climber. Prune this rose lightly until it gets established (about two years) as it blooms on old wood.
Winter hardy to zone 4. Once blooming.
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