The Polyantha class of roses came into being with the introduction of roses crossed between R. multiflora and hybrid teas in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Most are low growing plants mounding to 2 feet in circumference . The bushes produce a great quantity of small flowers in clusters throughout the year. This class of roses laid the groundwork for the development of the modern floribunda roses of today. Reportedly in 1909 Gruss an AAchen was that first floribunda. The polyanthas are not much grown today what with the popularity of the floribunda class.

Here in my Vista rose garden I favor the Polyantha class with about 30 varieties growing therein. Most of them I grow in pots and find them most suitable for my needs in my confined growing space. With the variation in bloom cycles I have some of them blooming in each of the 12 months each year with our temperate growing climate. A highly recommended , productive, rose class that should more often be grown in small landscape gardens. Only a few varieties are usually available at local nurseries and most must usually be mail ordered.

Ivys Polyanthas

The Kosters: Margo Koster, Dick Koster, Margo's Baby, Margo's Sister, Mothersday(red), SnowWhite(white), Orange Morsdag. Verdun, Whisper Louise, White Pet, Clotilde Soupert(bush & climber), Mignonette, Jean Mermoz, La Marne, Summer Snowflake, Mlle. Cecile Brunner(bush & climber), Katharina Zeimet, Marie Pavie, Heinrich Karsch, Belmont Yellow, Crystal Fairy, Mrs. R. M. Finch, Miss Edith Cavell, Lady Ann Kidwell, The Gift, Gabrielle Privat, Baby Faurax, Excellenz von Schubert, China Doll.