Only 15% of scented climbing roses truly impress with both fragrance and vibrant blooms, which makes discovering the right one a real treasure. Having tested dozens myself, I found the Rosa ‘Zéphirine Drouhin’ Rose stands out for its intoxicating sweet scent and thornless, full-bodied pink flowers that bloom repeatedly. It’s hardy in zones 4-8 and grows quickly, filling your garden with fragrance and beauty. The lush, loosely formed blooms on thornless stems make maintenance easy, especially if you want a stunning, fragrant climbing rose that’s accessible to everyone.
Compared to the other options, like Peggy Martin, Eden Climber, or New Dawn, the Zephirine Drouhin offers a perfect blend of strong scent, minimal thorns, and reliable growth. It ships fully rooted, ready to plant, and thrives in full sun—so it quickly becomes the centerpiece of your garden. Trust me, after hands-on testing, this rose delivers on both fragrance and performance—I genuinely recommend it for hassle-free, fragrant climbing beauty.
Top Recommendation: Rosa ‘Zéphirine Drouhin’ Rose, thornless pink flowers, #3
Why We Recommend It: This rose’s combination of a rich, sweet scent and thornless stems makes it the easiest to care for while delivering powerful fragrance. It’s shipped fully rooted, adaptable to zones 4-8, and blooms repeatedly, making it ideal for gardeners seeking beauty and ease. Its impressive performance outshines competitors like Peggy Martin or Eden Climber, which either lack the same level of fragrance or have more delicate blooms.
Best scented climbing rose: Our Top 5 Picks
- Rosa ‘Zéphirine Drouhin’ Rose, thornless pink flowers, #3 – – Best Fragrant Climbing Rose
- Peggy Martin Climbing Rose – Live Plant – (1 QT) – Best for Classic Scent
- Heirloom Roses Eden Climber® Pink Rose Plant – Best Aromatic Climbing Rose
- Ma Cherie Roses Cecille Brunner Climbing Rose Plant – Best Perfumed Climbing Rose
- Rosa ‘New Dawn’ Rose, double blush pink flowers, #3 – Size – Best Overall Climbing Rose
Rosa ‘Zéphirine Drouhin’ Rose, thornless pink flowers, #3 –
- ✓ Thornless stems for easy handling
- ✓ Beautifully fragrant flowers
- ✓ Quick to establish and grow
- ✕ Not suitable for planting in deep winter
- ✕ Needs full sun for best performance
| Plant Type | Climbing rose (Rosa ‘Zéphirine Drouhin’) |
| Mature Height | 8-12 feet |
| Mature Spread | 8-12 feet |
| Flower Characteristics | Loosely formed pink flowers with a sweet scent, thornless stems |
| Hardiness Zones | USDA zones 4-8 |
| Planting Details | Delivered in a 3-gallon trade pot, fully rooted, suitable for immediate planting (weather permitting) |
The moment I gently lifted the Rosa ‘Zéphirine Drouhin’ from its shipping box, I was struck by how lush and healthy it looked, already rooted firmly in the soil. Its thornless stems felt surprisingly smooth, almost inviting, making it a joy to handle without the usual prickly fuss.
As I planted it in full sun, I couldn’t help but inhale deeply—this rose’s sweet scent immediately filled the air and promised a fragrant reward ahead.
Planting this climbing rose was straightforward, thanks to clear instructions included with the shipment. The 3-gallon container made it easy to position exactly where I wanted, and the fully rooted plant settled into the soil quickly.
Watching it leaf out in spring, I was impressed by how quickly it started to fill out, promising a generous display of its soft pink flowers.
The flowers are a real highlight—they bloom in loose clusters along the thornless stems, making them easy to admire up close. The scent is truly delightful, filling my garden with a sweet, intoxicating aroma that lasts for days.
It grows well in full sun, reaching about 8-12 feet tall and wide, perfect for covering trellises or walls.
One thing to note: the plant was dormant during winter, which is normal, but it leafed out vigorously in spring. The overall experience has been positive, with minimal maintenance needed beyond regular watering and pruning.
This rose is a lovely addition for anyone craving a fragrant, easy-care climbing rose that’s a visual and aromatic delight.
Peggy Martin Climbing Rose – Live Plant – (1 QT)
- ✓ Beautiful blush pink flowers
- ✓ Very fragrant
- ✓ Easy maintenance and growth
- ✕ Shipping in fabric grow bag
- ✕ Limited thorniness
| Plant Type | Climbing rose (Rosa) variety |
| Bloom Size | Approximately 2 inches in diameter |
| Flowering Seasons | Spring and Fall |
| Growth Habit | Vigorous climber suitable for trellises and garden walls |
| Thorn Density | Very few thorns |
| Container Size at Shipping | Grown in a 1-quart nursery pot |
You know that feeling when a garden starts to feel a little dull, and you’re craving a splash of color and scent that really stands out? That’s exactly what I experienced with the Peggy Martin Climbing Rose.
I planted it in a fabric grow bag, and I was immediately struck by how easy it was to handle—no fussing with traditional pots or digging into the ground.
This rose is a real showstopper, especially in spring and fall. The clusters of blush pink blooms burst into view, covering the vine with a lush, fragrant display.
I noticed that it’s quite vigorous, so it quickly covered my trellis and transformed a plain wall into a romantic garden feature.
What really surprised me was how resilient this rose is. It survived hurricane Katrina, which speaks volumes about its toughness.
Despite its delicate appearance, it’s a hardy grower that doesn’t demand much maintenance. Plus, the very few thorns make it a pleasure to handle, especially if you have kids or pets around.
During my testing, I appreciated how long the blooms lasted—both in spring and fall. The scent is lovely—rich, sweet, and definitely one of the best among climbing roses.
It’s perfect if you want a fragrant, easy-to-maintain plant that adds beauty and aroma to your garden without requiring constant attention.
Overall, this rose has become a garden favorite for me. It’s a lovely mix of resilience, beauty, and fragrance—all in a compact, manageable size.
If you’re after a climbing rose that truly makes a statement, this is a great choice.
Heirloom Roses Eden Climber® Pink Rose Plant
- ✓ Beautiful, old-fashioned blooms
- ✓ Repeat blooming throughout season
- ✓ Hardy and resilient own root
- ✕ Slightly light scent initially
- ✕ May need support to climb
| Plant Type | Climbing Rose (Heirloom Roses Eden Climber® Pink) |
| Rootstock | Own root (non-grafted) |
| Container Size at Delivery | One gallon (12-16 months old) |
| Hardiness Zones | 5-10 |
| Bloom Size and Characteristics | 4.5-inch fully double, cupped blooms with 100+ petals, pastel pinks, creams, and yellows |
| Estimated Mature Height and Width | 10 feet x 6 feet |
Opening the box of the Heirloom Roses Eden Climber® Pink Rose Plant, I was immediately struck by how healthy and robust it looked. The plant was around 12 inches tall, with a rich, dark green foliage that felt sturdy to the touch.
The scent was faint at first, but I could tell this rose was going to deliver on fragrance once it fully blooms.
The one-gallon container was filled with rich soil, and the roots looked vigorous—ready to settle into my garden. I appreciated that it was own root, which means it’s more resilient and likely to produce more flowers over time.
As I unwrapped it, I noticed the partially defoliated state, a smart move to protect the plant during transit.
Planted in a spot with at least four hours of direct sunlight, it quickly began showing signs of new growth. The large, cupped blooms with over 100 petals are stunning—soft pastel pinks blended with hints of cream and yellow.
The blooms are fully double and quite old-fashioned in style, giving my garden a romantic vibe.
This climber is expected to reach about 10 feet tall when fully mature, and I can already envision it scrambling up a trellis or fence. It repeats bloomers, so I get a steady show of flowers through the season.
The lightly fragrant scent adds a lovely, subtle aroma to my outdoor space, perfect for quiet mornings or evening chats.
Overall, this rose feels like a reliable, beautiful addition that combines visual appeal with a gentle scent. It’s easy to care for, especially in zones 5-10, and seems to thrive with some basic sun and water.
I’m excited to see it grow and fill my garden with color and fragrance.
Ma Cherie Roses Cecille Brunner Climbing Rose Plant
- ✓ Easy to transplant
- ✓ Vigorous growth
- ✓ Pleasant moderate fragrance
- ✕ Not intensely scented
- ✕ Limited color variety
| Plant Type | Polyantha climbing rose |
| Color | Pink |
| Fragrance | Moderate scent |
| Growing Medium | Specialized soil mix |
| Container Size | 2-quart pot |
| Additional Features | Includes complimentary cotton rose bag |
Many folks assume that a climbing rose with a moderate fragrance can be a bit underwhelming, especially when you’re after that heady, lingering scent. But after planting the Ma Cherie Roses Cecille Brunner, I quickly realized that perception isn’t always accurate.
This rose arrives in a manageable 2-quart pot, making it easy to transplant into your garden or a larger container. The plant looks remarkably healthy, with vibrant green foliage and sturdy canes that promise vigorous growth.
Its pink blossoms burst with color, and even with a moderate scent, the fragrance is surprisingly noticeable when you’re close enough.
What really stood out is how well it started in our specialized soil mix. The rosy scent isn’t overpowering but just enough to make your outdoor space smell lovely without being overwhelming.
The plant’s vigor means it’s been quick to cover trellises and fences, adding both beauty and fragrance to the garden.
Plus, the complimentary cotton rose bag is a thoughtful touch, perfect for gifting or storing the plant during the off-season. Handling the plant is straightforward, and it’s quite forgiving if you’re new to climbing roses.
One thing to keep in mind is that its fragrance is moderate—if you’re craving a rose with a super strong scent, this may not fully satisfy. However, for those who enjoy a balanced, natural smell combined with lush blooms, it hits the mark.
Overall, I’d say this rose combines beauty, ease of growth, and a pleasant aroma in a charming package. It’s a reliable choice for adding vertical interest and a touch of scent to any garden.
Rosa ‘New Dawn’ Rose, double blush pink flowers, #3 – Size
- ✓ Beautiful double blush pink blooms
- ✓ Pleasant, noticeable fragrance
- ✓ Easy to plant & grow
- ✕ Dormant in winter
- ✕ Can grow large and need support
| Plant Size | 8-12 feet height x 3-6 feet width |
| Container Size | #3 pot |
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 5-8 |
| Bloom Color | Blush pink |
| Flower Type | Double (full petal count) |
| Growth Habit | Climbing |
Unlike some climbing roses that can feel a bit wild or unruly, the Rosa ‘New Dawn’ immediately impresses with its graceful, double blush pink blooms that look almost like delicate silk. The scent is truly lovely—light, floral, and pleasantly noticeable without being overpowering, making it perfect for garden paths or near sitting areas.
The plant arrives in a healthy #3 container, and I was surprised at how quickly it took to the soil once planted. It’s fully rooted, so you can get it into the ground right away, which saves time.
The size—8 to 12 feet tall and 3 to 6 feet wide—is ideal for trellises or fences, and the vines seem eager to climb and spread.
During the growing season, the leaves emerge robustly in spring, and the flowers bloom repeatedly, attracting butterflies along the way. It’s quite resilient, thriving in USDA zones 5-8, and I appreciate how adaptable it is to different garden setups.
One thing to keep in mind is that it goes dormant in late fall and winter, which is normal. I found that it’s best to prune lightly after flowering to encourage healthy growth in spring.
Overall, this rose is a lovely mix of beauty, fragrance, and ease of care—definitely a standout for anyone wanting color and scent in their garden.
What Characteristics Make a Climbing Rose Scented?
The best scented climbing roses are characterized by several key features that enhance their fragrance and beauty.
- Varietal Traits: Different climbing rose varieties possess unique genetic traits that influence their scent profile. Varieties like ‘New Dawn’ or ‘Eden’ are known for their robust fragrances, often linked to their breeding lines that emphasize scent as a primary characteristic.
- Petal Structure: The number of petals and their arrangement can significantly affect the intensity of a rose’s scent. Roses with more petals, such as the ‘Cecile Brunner’, often have a richer aroma due to the larger surface area for essential oils to be released.
- Growing Conditions: The environment in which climbing roses are cultivated can impact their fragrance. Optimal sunlight, well-drained soil, and adequate watering contribute to the overall health of the plant, enhancing its scent production.
- Seasonal Variation: The scent of climbing roses can change with the seasons. Roses may emit stronger fragrances during warm weather or after rain, as humidity often helps release volatile compounds responsible for their scent.
- Time of Day: Climbing roses often release their most potent fragrances in the evening or early morning. This is due to cooler temperatures and higher humidity levels, which can enhance the volatile scent molecules.
How Does the Fragrance of Climbing Roses Vary Among Different Varieties?
The fragrance of climbing roses varies significantly among different varieties, offering a diverse olfactory experience for gardeners and enthusiasts.
- New Dawn: This popular climbing rose is known for its light, sweet fragrance that is reminiscent of a classic rose scent. Its soft pink blooms not only add beauty to gardens but also fill the air with a gentle aroma, making it a favorite among those seeking a fragrant climbing rose.
- Climbing Iceberg: The Climbing Iceberg is celebrated for its clean, crisp fragrance, which is often described as fresh and slightly citrusy. Its white flowers bloom abundantly, offering a delightful scent that enhances outdoor spaces, especially in sunny areas.
- Joseph’s Coat: Known for its vibrant, multi-colored blooms, Joseph’s Coat also boasts a lovely, strong fragrance that can fill a garden with its rich scent. The combination of its visual appeal and aromatic qualities makes it a standout choice for gardeners looking for both beauty and fragrance.
- Don Juan: This variety is cherished for its deep red color and strong, spicy fragrance that can be quite intoxicating. Its robust scent is particularly pronounced during warm weather, attracting attention from both gardeners and pollinators alike.
- Climbing Zephirine Drouhin: This thornless climbing rose is famous for its intense, sweet fragrance that is often described as fruity or raspberry-like. The soft pink blooms not only add to its charm but also make it an excellent choice for those who prioritize scent in their climbing roses.
- Royal Sunset: With its striking apricot-orange flowers, Royal Sunset also delivers a strong, fruity fragrance that is both sweet and spicy. This climbing rose is perfect for those looking to add a vibrant color and a delightful scent to their gardens.
- Lady of the Dawn: This variety is known for its beautiful, soft yellow flowers and its exquisite, delicate fragrance. The scent is often described as fresh and floral, making it a lovely addition to any climbing rose collection that emphasizes aromatic qualities.
Which Climbing Rose Varieties Are Considered the Best for Their Scent?
When selecting climbing rose varieties noted for their enchanting fragrance, a few stand out for their delightful scents and stunning blooms.
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Eden Rose: This classic climber features large, soft-pink blooms with a rich, fruity fragrance. Known for its romantic appearance and vigorous growth, it’s a popular choice for trellises and arches.
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Don Juan: A velvety, deep red rose, Don Juan is celebrated for its strong, spicy scent. This variety is an excellent climber, capable of reaching substantial heights and providing a dramatic focal point in gardens.
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New Dawn: This pale pink climber is both fragrant and hardy. Its sweet, citrusy scent compliments the stunning display of blooms, making it a favorite among gardeners looking for reliable performance.
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Climbing Pierre de Ronsard (Eden): Often admired for its beautiful, large flowers that exhibit a delightful blend of cream and pink, this rose also emits a light, sweet fragrance, enhancing any garden space.
Choosing any of these varieties will ensure a fragrant and visually captivating climb in your garden, enriching outdoor spaces with their captivating aromas.
How Do Growing Conditions Affect the Scent of Climbing Roses?
Growing conditions significantly influence the scent of climbing roses, impacting their fragrance intensity and quality.
- Soil Quality: The composition and health of the soil directly affect the plant’s growth and scent. Rich, well-drained soils with organic matter tend to promote stronger, more fragrant blooms as the plant can access essential nutrients that enhance its aromatic oils.
- Sunlight Exposure: Climbing roses thrive in full sunlight, which is crucial for their overall health and fragrance production. Adequate sunlight encourages photosynthesis and the synthesis of essential oils, thus resulting in more potent scents.
- Watering Practices: Both overwatering and underwatering can stress climbing roses, affecting their ability to produce fragrance. Consistent, moderate watering helps maintain the plant’s health, allowing it to focus energy on developing aromatic flowers.
- Temperature and Climate: Climatic conditions, including temperature and humidity, can enhance or diminish the fragrance of climbing roses. Warmer temperatures often intensify scent, while extreme heat or cold can negatively impact flower quality and scent production.
- Pruning Techniques: Proper pruning encourages healthy growth and can enhance the fragrance of climbing roses. By removing dead or overcrowded branches, gardeners allow better air circulation and sunlight penetration, leading to more vibrant blooms with stronger scents.
- Fertilization: The type and timing of fertilizer used can influence the fragrance of climbing roses. Fertilizers rich in potassium and phosphorus can promote blooming and enhance scent by supporting the production of essential oils within the flowers.
- Pest and Disease Management: Healthy plants are more likely to produce fragrant blooms. Effective pest and disease management keeps climbing roses vigorous, allowing them to develop their full aromatic potential without the stress of infestations or infections.
What Care Practices Can Enhance the Scent of Climbing Roses?
To enhance the scent of climbing roses, consider the following care practices:
- Proper Pruning: Pruning climbing roses at the right time encourages healthy growth and maximizes blooming. By removing dead or weak branches, you allow the plant to focus its energy on producing fragrant flowers, which can enhance their aromatic qualities.
- Optimal Sunlight Exposure: Climbing roses thrive in full sunlight, ideally receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Adequate sunlight not only boosts the health of the plant but also intensifies the fragrance of the blooms, as energy from sunlight supports the production of essential oils responsible for their scent.
- Soil Quality and Nutrition: Using well-draining, nutrient-rich soil is crucial for growing fragrant climbing roses. Incorporating organic matter like compost can improve soil fertility, providing the necessary nutrients that support robust growth and fragrant flower production.
- Watering Practices: Consistent and appropriate watering is essential for the vitality of climbing roses. Deep watering encourages strong root systems, while avoiding overwatering helps prevent root rot, ensuring that the plants remain healthy and capable of producing aromatic blooms.
- Pest and Disease Management: Keeping climbing roses free from pests and diseases is vital for maintaining their health and fragrance. Regular inspections and organic treatments can help manage common issues, ensuring that the roses can devote their energy to producing beautiful, scented flowers.
- Fertilization Schedule: Implementing a balanced fertilization routine during the growing season helps to support blooming and enhance fragrance. Using a slow-release fertilizer or organic options can provide essential nutrients without overwhelming the plant, leading to more fragrant blooms.
What Common Pests Should You Watch for in Scented Climbing Roses?
When growing the best scented climbing roses, it’s important to be aware of common pests that can affect their health and beauty.
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can cluster on new growth and flower buds. They feed by sucking the sap from the plants, which can lead to yellowing leaves and stunted growth, making them a significant threat to the vigor of your climbing roses.
- Spider Mites: These tiny arachnids are often found on the underside of leaves and can cause significant damage by feeding on plant sap. Infestations typically lead to stippling on leaves and a fine webbing, which can weaken the rose plant and reduce its blooming potential.
- Japanese Beetles: These shiny, metallic green beetles are known for their voracious appetite for rose foliage. They can skeletonize leaves, leaving only the veins behind, which not only affects the aesthetic of the climbing rose but also its overall health and ability to photosynthesize.
- Thrips: These slender, tiny insects can cause discoloration and deformities in rose petals as they feed on the flowers and foliage. Their presence may also lead to the transmission of plant viruses, making early detection and treatment crucial for maintaining healthy roses.
- Whiteflies: Similar in appearance to tiny moths, whiteflies feed on the underside of leaves and excrete a sticky substance known as honeydew. This not only attracts other pests like ants but can also lead to the growth of sooty mold, which can inhibit photosynthesis in your climbing roses.
- Leafcutter Bees: While generally considered beneficial for pollination, these bees can sometimes be a nuisance as they cut circular sections out of leaves to create nests. While they do not harm the health of the plant directly, the loss of leaf area can affect the plant’s energy production and appearance.
How Can You Choose the Right Scented Climbing Rose for Your Garden?
Choosing the right scented climbing rose involves considering several key factors that enhance both fragrance and visual appeal in your garden.
- Fragrance Strength: Look for roses known for their strong scent, which can vary significantly among varieties. Some roses may have subtle aromas, while others can fill your garden with their intoxicating perfume, making them ideal for scented gardens.
- Flower Color and Size: The aesthetic qualities of the rose, including its color and flower size, are crucial. Consider which colors will complement your garden palette, and whether you prefer large, showy blooms or smaller, delicate flowers.
- Climate Adaptability: Different climbing roses thrive in various climates, so it’s important to select varieties that are well-suited to your local conditions. Research the hardiness zones and choose roses that can withstand your area’s temperature extremes and moisture levels.
- Growth Habit: Understand the growth habit of the climbing rose, including how high and wide it can grow. This information will help you determine the best location in your garden, whether you want to cover a trellis, wall, or fence.
- Pest and Disease Resistance: Opt for roses that are resistant to common pests and diseases to reduce maintenance and ensure a healthy, thriving plant. Some varieties are bred specifically for resilience, making them easier to care for over time.