1850

12 to 20 feet

This apparently natural hybrid of R. banksiae and R. laevigata also bears the name of the young Scottish undergardener Robert Fortune. He discovered it in newly opened China, in 1850, blooming in a Shanghai garden. ‘Fortuniana’ retains the fine, violet scent of the ‘White Lady Banks’, but offers a larger, nearly 2 inch flower that is white and very double with a knotted center. The nearly thornless canes have foliage that is graceful and open, like the Banksias, but somewhat larger and glossier as befits the ‘Cherokee Rose’ heritage. It can be planted anywhere, as this is a rose that thrives even in poor, dry, sandy soils. The disease resistance, ease of culture, and graceful effect of this plant give it great value in the landscape. ‘Fortuniaia’ may be grown as a climber, spreading 12 to 20 feet, or it may be pruned back to form a mounding shrub of 6 to 8 feet in diameter. In mid-spring all the enthusiasm of both parents will be visible in the lush cascade of blooms.