Petal Pals
old garden · 1597
White Rose of York
Rosa x alba 'Semiplena'
5-10 feet (1.5-3 meters)
Height
Once
Blooming
Shade OK
Light
3–9
Zone
Plant & Flower Traits
Rose type
old garden
Bloom size
2.5-3 inches (6-8 cm)
Bloom habit
Large clusters of flat, semi-double flowers.
Petal count
9-16 petals
Flowering
once blooming
Habit
arching
Color
white
Fragrance
strong
Foliage
Grey-green or bluish-green
Foliage surface
Matt
Fragrance Notes
Deep, sweet old rose scent with distinct notes of citrus and cherry; sometimes described as having a 'fresh face powder' quality.
Color Description
Pure milk-white blossoms with prominent, showy golden-yellow stamens at the center.
🌱 Growth & Garden Habits
Light
Shade tolerant
Height
5-10 feet (1.5-3 meters)
Spread
4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
Soil
Tolerant of a wide range of soil types including clay, loam, sandy, and chalky soils, provided they are well-drained. Prefers a humus-rich environment.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 3–9
Disease Resistance
Excellent; one of the healthiest old garden roses.
🌿 Care Guide
Watering
Requires average, evenly moist conditions but must be well-drained; does not tolerate standing water. Water more frequently during dry spells, approximately twice per week.
Fertilizer
Thrives in moderately fertile, humus-rich soil. Apply a balanced rose fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins.
Pruning
Prune in late winter or early spring while dormant. Focus on removing dead, damaged, or diseased wood and thinning out approximately one-third of the oldest canes to the base. Minimal pruning is recommended to preserve its natural arching habit.
Pests & Diseases
Highly disease resistant, particularly against blackspot and mildew. May occasionally suffer from aphids or midges. Known for its ability to suckering.
🧬 Pedigree
Natural hybrid involving Rosa gallica and a member of the Caninae section (possibly Rosa canina); often considered a sport of 'Alba Maxima'.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
RHS Award of Garden Merit (AGM)