Rose Madame Hardy

'Madame Hardy' (also known as Mme Hardy) is a wonderful vintage rose, considered one of the best ever. Also considered to be one of the most exquisite white roses ever created by hybridization, it falls under the Damask rose classification and displays its bloom once a year for several weeks, gracing the transition from late spring to early summer.

The beautifully formed, cupped blooms are about three inches across. As the flower continue to open they become flat and quartered with their signature green button eye center. The outer petals ultimately reflex splendidly, leaving the center slightly concave, highlighting the green center.

Recognized by the American Rose Society within the categories of white, near white, or white blend, 'Madame Hardy' remains a remarkable survivor among Damask roses that is still available in the market. Its origin dates back to around 1831-1832 in France, attributed to the efforts of Julien-Alexandre Hardy, an enthusiast in rose breeding who held the role of chief horticulturist at Paris's Luxembourg Gardens. From the multiple introductions by Alexandre Hardy, merely around ten endure in commercial availability, and 'Madame Hardy' stands as the most notable achievement among them. The bush is large about 200 cm tall (6 - 7 feet) with numerous prickles.

The original name for this exquisite rose was Félicité Hardy, named after Alexandre Hardy's wife.

Unknown. Some rose historians believe that this is possibly not a pure Damask rose, but possibly a Damask-Portland or Damask-Alba hybrid.

USDA zone 4 and warmer