Botzaris. Bred by Robert in 1856, France.

This lovely white Damask vies with 'Mme. Hardy' for its perfect blooms and grace. For many, 'Botzaris' may be preferable to 'Mme. Hardy' as the shrub is smaller and more compact, growing to no more than 5 feet tall under most circumstances.

The blooms of 'Botzaris' are snow white, with just a hint of red on the guard petals, most visible in the bud. The fragrance, as could be expected, is wonderfully rich; typical Damask. Individual blooms are about 3 inches in diameter, cupped and packed full of petals that withstand wet weather admirably. The foliage can Blackspot under stressful weather conditions, but has never mildewed in my experience. This rose deserves as much attention as its more ubiquitous relative 'Mme. Hardy'.

ARS merit rating: N.A.
Personal merit rating: 8.0
Hardiness: USDA zones 5 to 9, possibly zone 4 in a protected location.
Shrub size: 3 to 5 feet tall X 3 feet wide.
Fragrance: 4.0 intense Damask fragrance.