Bourbon rose

This is one of the classic roses, introduced in 1868 and cherished for generations for its lavish and unsophisticated flower display, and its ease of cultivation, not least the thornless stems which make pruning a pleasure. It is usually seen trained on a house wall, but mildew can be a problem where air cannot circulate, and it is better grown on a pillar, arch or pergola, and can even be pruned as a large shrub. Deadhead regularly to maintain good continuity The Royal Horticultural Society has given it its prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM).