Hansa is one of the more typical R. rugosa hybrids, having characteristics very similar to the species. Often ignored and even maligned as being an unsophisticated rose, it is a very attractive shrub that deserves garden space.

Hansa blooms throughout the season, in the same manner as R. rugosa sp., often displaying ripening hips at the same times as new blooms are opening. The flowers are a clear magenta hue, not a true red. The photo at left is true to color. (at least it is on my screen) Hansa offers the distinct Rugosa fragrance, which I would describe as Old Rose mixed with clove. Not everyone would agree, but scent interpretation is a very subjective thing. Bloom form is fully double, but of no particluar arrangement of petals. I think we could call this a rosette form.

Like most of the Rugosa class, particularly the ones that most closely resemble the species, this shrub is completely resistant to the typical rose diseases. For this trait alone I would place this rose high on the list of larger desirable shrub roses! I believe that Hansa is reputed to stay under 6 feet in height, although I have seen some very well established plants that have become magnificent specimens almost 10 feet tall! Given the space to get to this size, it forms a wonderful treelike form with an umbrella shaped canopy. Rather than pruning this shrub to keep it small, I would encourage people to place it where it can be allowed to take on these treelike characteristics. I was truly impressed with the beauty of these old plants of Hansa.