Rose of the Month ~ February 2002

William Baffin

February's rose is the Hybrid Kordesii shrub William Baffin. It was introduced in 1983 and has an ARS rating of 8.9. This time of year, as our roses sit waiting for spring, William Baffin is one rose we don't have to worry about returning full bloom. Known to some as the Tyrannasaurus Rex of roses, it is a very hardy climber that requires long pant, long heavy gloves and a sturdy pruner to keep it in line. But the deep pink, semi double blooms with yellow stamens make up for all the work. Besides, with all the tender roses out there, who can possibly complain that a rose is too hardy?

(click on the images to see larger versions)

January 2002 Rose of the Month - Climbing Westerland