Hebe's Lip. Introduced by William Paul, 1912. (Possibly bred by Lee, pre-1846)

Also known under the names 'Rubrotincta' and 'Reine Blanche'. Considered to be a hybrid between A Damask and R. eglanteria.

This rose has a lovely species-like charm, with its near-single bloom form and white petals blushed with purplish-pink. The growth habit is vigorous and arching, forming a fountain-shaped briar about 4 X 4 feet. The three inch blooms open flat and are not particularly long lasting. The foliage has proven to be very healthy withour spraying in my garden, which is a plus.

This is a prime example of a rose best left unpruned, except for removal of dead or dying wood. Allowed to grow as it pleases, it forms a very shapely shrub. Strictly speaking, this is not a spectacular rose, but well worth including in a collection of Damasks and other OGR's; it is a charmer, not a dazzler.

ARS merit rating: N.A.
Personal merit rating: 7.2
Hardiness: USDA zones 5 to 8, possibly zone 4 in a protected location.
Shrub size: 3 to 4 feet tall X 4 feet wide.
Fragrance: 3.0 Fairly rich Damask fragrance.