Petal Pals
old garden · 1865
Alfred Colomb
Rosa 'Alfred Colomb'
4 to 5 feet
Height
Repeat
Blooming
Full sun
Light
5–9
Zone
Plant & Flower Traits
Rose type
old garden
Bloom size
Large (3 to 4 inches)
Bloom habit
Solitary or in small clusters of up to 3 blooms; globular and full.
Petal count
40 to 45 petals
Flowering
repeat blooming
Habit
upright
Color
purple
Fragrance
very strong
Foliage
Light to medium green, sometimes with a red edge on young leaves.
Foliage surface
Semi-glossy
Fragrance Notes
Classic old rose scent with sweet notes and hints of rose oil.
Color Description
Brilliant carmine-red or strawberry-red with darker carmine shading, occasionally fading to purple with age.
🌱 Growth & Garden Habits
Light
Full sun
Height
4 to 5 feet
Spread
3 to 4 feet
Soil
Prefers rich, fertile, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter; adaptable to various soil types including clay and calcareous soils.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 5–9
Disease Resistance
Moderate to Good
🌿 Care Guide
Watering
Requires regular watering to maintain consistently moist, well-drained soil; avoid overhead irrigation to prevent foliage diseases.
Fertilizer
Apply a balanced rose fertilizer or organic compost in early spring and after the first flush of blooms.
Pruning
Prune by one-third in early spring; remove old or unproductive wood to encourage new growth and maintain an open center for airflow.
Pests & Diseases
Susceptible to black spot and powdery mildew, though considered healthy for its class; requires good air circulation.
🧬 Pedigree
Seedling of 'Général Jacqueminot'
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Historically celebrated as a prize-winning variety in the late 19th century; often listed as a 'best-in-class' antique rose.