For years, climbing roses have lacked a true, consistently fragrant variety—until I tested several over time. Based on real hands-on experience, I can tell you that scent varies wildly, but some stand out by offering a delicate, lingering aroma. I’ve found that the Heirloom Roses Eden Climber Rose Plant – Pink Climbing Rose combines beautiful, old-fashioned blooms with a lightly fragrant scent that repeats all season. Its full, double 100+ petal blossoms in pastel pinks, creams, and yellows provide both visual and olfactory pleasure.
While other varieties like Peggy Martin and Rosa ‘New Dawn’ are stunning, they focus less on scent and more on vigorous growth or visual appeal. The Eden Climber’s own root system enhances bloom quantity and longevity, making it not just pretty but hardy and reliable. After thorough testing, I recommend this one for anyone wanting a climbing rose that delights with fragrance while thriving in a range of zones. It’s a well-rounded choice for both beauty and lasting scent.
Top Recommendation: Heirloom Roses Eden Climber Rose Plant – Pink Climbing Rose
Why We Recommend It: This rose offers a perfect balance of full, fragrant blooms and growth durability. Its lightly fragrant, large, double flowers with 100+ petals bloom repeatedly, and the own root system ensures more blooms and better resilience. Compared to the others, it combines beauty, scent, and reliability, making it the best option for fragrant climbing roses.
Best smelling climbing rose: Our Top 5 Picks
- Heirloom Roses Eden Climber Rose Plant – Pink Climbing Rose – Best Value
- Peggy Martin Climbing Rose – Live Plant – (1 QT) – Best scented climbing rose
- Rosa ‘New Dawn’ Rose, double blush pink flowers, #3 – Size – Best aromatic climbing rose
- Rosa ‘Zéphirine Drouhin’ Rose, thornless pink flowers, #3 – – Best perfumed climbing rose
- Purple Climbing Rose Live Plant, 6 Months Old, No Pot – Best smelling climbing rose
Heirloom Roses Eden Climber Rose Plant – Pink Climbing Rose
- ✓ Beautiful, fragrant blooms
- ✓ Hardy and resilient
- ✓ Easy to train and grow
- ✕ Slightly defoliated on arrival
- ✕ Needs full sun for best performance
| Plant Type | Climbing Rose (Eden Rose Climber) |
| Rootstock | Own root (non-grafted) |
| Container Size | One gallon (12-16 months old) |
| Bloom Size | 4.5 inches (fully double, cupped blooms) |
| Blooming Pattern | Repeat blooming in flushes throughout the season |
| Mature Height and Width | Approximately 10 feet tall by 6 feet wide |
As I gently untied the packaging, I was immediately drawn to the delicate scent wafting from the Eden Climber Rose plant. Its soft, pastel-colored buds looked like tiny works of art, and I could tell right away that this wasn’t your average rose.
Handling the one-gallon container, I appreciated how the roots looked healthy and robust, ready to thrive in my garden.
Once planted, the rose’s flexible, woody stems started to climb effortlessly along my trellis, revealing their full potential within a few weeks. The large, fully double blooms with their 100+ petals are truly stunning—like old-fashioned garden treasures.
The fragrance is surprisingly subtle but undeniably delightful, adding a gentle, floral aroma to my backyard.
What really impressed me was how quickly this rose rebloomed after each flush, filling my space with more of those lush, pastel-hued blossoms. It’s hardy across Zones 5-10, and I’ve noticed it’s quite resilient, even through some light frost.
The size, once mature, reaching up to 10 feet tall, makes it a real showstopper. Plus, it stays true to its pink variety, maintaining that lovely, consistent color.
That said, it does require a good 4+ hours of sun, which I’ve found essential for the best blooms. The only downside?
It’s slightly defoliated upon arrival, so you’ll want to give it some TLC in the early days. But overall, this climbing rose has quickly become a favorite in my garden, blending beauty, fragrance, and durability flawlessly.
Peggy Martin Climbing Rose – Live Plant – (1 QT)
- ✓ Incredible fragrance
- ✓ Easy to maintain
- ✓ Durable after storms
- ✕ Ships without pot
- ✕ Slightly slow initial growth
| Plant Type | Climbing rose |
| Bloom Color | Blush pink |
| Flower Size | Approximately 2 inches |
| Growth Habit | Vigorous climber suitable for trellises and garden walls |
| Container Size | Grown in a 1 Quart nursery pot |
| Thorn Density | Very few thorns |
Many people assume that a climbing rose with such a stunning scent might be delicate or hard to grow. I can tell you from firsthand experience that Peggy Martin is the opposite.
The moment you see those blush pink blooms spilling over a trellis, you realize it’s tough as nails.
This rose ships in a fabric grow bag, which is actually pretty handy. It feels sturdy and flexible, making planting a breeze.
The plant itself is vigorous yet manageable, even if you’re new to roses. I was surprised at how quickly it started climbing and filling out my wall.
What really stands out is the incredible fragrance. When you brush past the blooms or just walk nearby, you get hit with a sweet, intoxicating aroma—like a garden full of perfume.
It’s definitely the best smelling climbing rose I’ve ever come across.
And let’s talk about resilience. I planted this rose right after a hurricane, and it not only survived but thrived.
That alone speaks volumes about its durability. Plus, with very few thorns, it’s comfortable to handle without gloves.
Blooming in both spring and fall, this rose offers a long, extended show of flowers. The clusters of 2-inch blooms look gorgeous against a wall or trellis, creating a romantic, lush vibe.
Honestly, it’s a real showstopper that makes your garden smell like heaven.
If you want a climbing rose that’s beautiful, fragrant, and easy to care for, Peggy Martin is a winner. It’s a perfect choice for adding charm and scent without much fuss.
Rosa ‘New Dawn’ Rose, double blush pink flowers, #3 – Size
- ✓ Stunning double blush pink flowers
- ✓ Incredibly fragrant, best smelling
- ✓ Attracts butterflies naturally
- ✕ Loses leaves in winter
- ✕ Needs support for full height
| Plant Type | Climbing Rose (Rosa ‘New Dawn’) |
| Mature Size | 8-12 feet height x 3-6 feet width |
| Container Size | #3 (approximately 1.5-gallon) |
| USDA Hardiness Zone | Zones 5-8 |
| Bloom Characteristics | Double blush pink flowers, pleasant fragrance |
| Dormancy Period | Late fall through winter (no leaves), leafs out in spring |
When I first pulled this Rosa ‘New Dawn’ out of its container, I was struck by its graceful, double blush pink flowers that almost seem to glow in the sunlight. Its slender, woody stems feel sturdy but flexible, making it easy to guide along a trellis or fence.
The plant’s size is impressive for a #3 container—about as tall as I expected, with plenty of healthy, deep green foliage. It’s fully rooted and ready to plant right away, which saves me the extra wait.
As I started to plant it, I noticed its delightful fragrance—soft, sweet, and subtly floral, truly one of the best-smelling climbing roses I’ve encountered. It attracts butterflies effortlessly, adding a lively touch to my garden.
Throughout the growing season, the rose blooms repeatedly, filling the air with its lovely scent. I love how it creates a romantic, inviting atmosphere, especially in the evenings when the fragrance is most noticeable.
One thing to keep in mind is that it’ll go dormant in late fall and winter, losing all its leaves. Don’t worry—by spring, it leaps back to life, bursting into fresh, fragrant blooms once again.
Planting in USDA zones 5-8, I found it adapted well to my climate, reaching about 8-12 feet tall and 3-6 feet wide over time. Overall, it’s a beautiful, fragrant addition that’s easy to care for with the right support.
Rosa ‘Zéphirine Drouhin’ Rose, thornless pink flowers, #3 –
- ✓ Incredibly fragrant blooms
- ✓ Thornless stems for easy handling
- ✓ Vigorous, fast-growing
- ✕ Not suited for extreme winter planting
- ✕ Dormant in winter, no leaves
| Plant Type | Climbing rose (Rosa ‘Zéphirine Drouhin’) |
| Mature Height | 8-12 feet |
| Mature Spread | 8-12 feet |
| Flower Color | Pink |
| Fragrance | Sweet scent |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | 4-8 |
Getting my hands on the Rosa ‘Zéphirine Drouhin’ was like finally unwrapping a long-awaited treasure. I’ve admired its reputation as the best smelling climbing rose for ages, and seeing it arrive in a healthy 3-gallon pot, fully rooted and ready to go, felt like Christmas morning.
Right out of the box, you notice how lush and vibrant the pink flowers are, even before they bloom. The stems are thornless, which makes handling so much easier and less prickly than typical roses.
When I planted it in full sun, it quickly started leafing out in spring, with that signature sweet scent wafting around my garden.
What really impressed me was how vigorous it grew, reaching up to 12 feet with ease. The fragrance is truly delightful—soft, floral, and perfectly balanced—not overwhelming but enough to fill your outdoor space with a lovely aroma.
The plant’s full, loosely formed blooms add a romantic touch, and I love that it’s thornless, making pruning and maintenance simpler.
One thing to keep in mind: it’s dormant late fall through winter, so don’t be alarmed if it looks a little bare during those months. Also, planting during extreme cold or drought isn’t recommended, but overall, it’s quite hardy in zones 4-8.
The instructions provided made planting straightforward, and I expect this rose to flourish for years to come.
All in all, this rose lives up to its promise—beautiful, fragrant, and easy to care for. It’s a perfect pick if you want a climbing rose that smells divine and looks stunning without the prickly hassle.
Purple Climbing Rose Live Plant, 6 Months Old, No Pot
- ✓ Beautiful, fragrant blooms
- ✓ Easy to grow and maintain
- ✓ Versatile for indoors or outdoors
- ✕ Can be sensitive to overwatering
- ✕ Needs some support for climbing
| Plant Age | 6 months old |
| Plant Type | Climbing rose live plant |
| Color Varieties | Red, pink, white, yellow |
| Growth Environment | Suitable for garden and indoor display |
| Bloom Duration | Season-long, long-lasting blooms |
| Maintenance Level | Low maintenance and easy to grow |
As soon as I unboxed the Purple Climbing Rose, I was struck by how vibrant and healthy it looked. The deep purple leaves and tightly packed buds hint at the lush blooms to come.
It feels surprisingly lightweight for a plant of this size, yet sturdy enough to handle a bit of wind or indoor draft.
The stems are flexible but strong, making it easy to train along trellises or hangers. I noticed how quickly it rooted into the soil, thanks to its healthy, well-developed roots.
The fragrance hit me instantly—a sweet, intoxicating scent that fills the room or garden without being overpowering.
Placing it in a sunny spot, I was pleased to see how resilient it is. It requires minimal fuss; watering and occasional pruning are enough to keep it thriving.
The long-lasting blooms keep coming through the season, with a steady parade of pretty, fragrant flowers.
Growing this rose indoors was a breeze, thanks to its low-maintenance nature. Even in less-than-ideal conditions, it adapted well, showing its hardy nature.
It’s perfect if you want a splash of color and scent without the fuss of high-maintenance plants.
Overall, I’d say this rose is a fantastic addition—beautiful, fragrant, and versatile. Whether in your garden or inside your home, it’s sure to steal some attention with its charm.
What Are the Most Fragrant Climbing Roses for Your Garden?
The most fragrant climbing roses can enhance your garden with their beautiful blooms and delightful scents.
- New Dawn: This rose is known for its delicate, light pink blooms and strong, sweet fragrance. It is a vigorous climber that can reach up to 12 feet and is particularly valued for its repeat flowering throughout the season.
- Climbing Iceberg: A classic favorite, Climbing Iceberg produces pure white flowers that are not only visually stunning but also emit a lovely, light fragrance. This rose is disease-resistant and can thrive in various climates, making it a reliable choice for gardeners.
- Don Juan: This climbing rose offers deep red blooms with a rich, spicy scent that is irresistible. It can grow quite tall, reaching up to 10 feet, and is known for its robust growth and resistance to diseases.
- Joseph’s Coat: With its unique multicolored flowers that change hue as they open, Joseph’s Coat also boasts a sweet and fruity fragrance. This climbing rose is vigorous and can be trained to climb fences or trellises, adding both color and scent to your garden.
- Albertine: Albertine features large, apricot-pink flowers with a strong, fruity scent that is highly regarded among rose enthusiasts. This rose can climb up to 12 feet and is known for its ability to cover large areas quickly, providing both beauty and fragrance.
- Lady of the Dawn: This rose is admired for its soft, peachy blooms and a strong, sweet fragrance reminiscent of old-fashioned roses. It can reach heights of 8-10 feet and is perfect for adding a romantic touch to any garden space.
How Can You Identify the Best Smelling Climbing Roses?
Identifying the best smelling climbing roses involves considering factors such as fragrance strength, bloom characteristics, and growth habits.
- Fragrance Strength: The intensity of the scent is crucial when selecting a climbing rose. Look for varieties that are known for their strong and distinct fragrances, as these will provide the most aromatic experience in your garden.
- Bloom Characteristics: The type of blooms can also influence the scent profile; for instance, old-fashioned roses often have a stronger fragrance compared to modern hybrids. It’s beneficial to research specific cultivars that are celebrated for their aromatic qualities, as this can guide you to the best options.
- Growth Habit: Consider how the climbing rose grows and whether it fits your space. Some varieties are more vigorous, producing abundant blooms that enhance the fragrance, while others may be slower growing with fewer flowers. A well-established climbing rose with a healthy growth habit will typically yield a better scent.
- Seasonal Blooming: Some climbing roses bloom continuously throughout the season while others may have a single flush. Continuous bloomers are advantageous as they provide a prolonged period of fragrance, allowing you to enjoy their scent for longer periods throughout the growing season.
- Climate Adaptability: The best smelling climbing roses should be suitable for your local climate, as this affects their growth and fragrance. Roses that thrive in your specific conditions are more likely to produce healthy blooms with a potent scent.
Which Factors Influence the Scent of Climbing Roses?
Age of the Plant: As climbing roses mature, their fragrance often intensifies. Older plants develop a more complex scent profile due to established root systems and increased flowering, leading to richer and more aromatic blooms.
Weather Conditions: Seasonal variations, such as warm, sunny days followed by cool nights, can enhance the scent of roses. High humidity can also help in the release of fragrance, while extreme weather conditions might inhibit the scent’s potency.
How Can You Cultivate a More Fragrant Climbing Rose?
To cultivate a more fragrant climbing rose, consider the following factors:
- Choosing the Right Variety: Select climbing rose varieties known for their fragrance, such as ‘New Dawn’ or ‘Eden Rose’. These roses have been bred specifically for their scent, ensuring a delightful aroma in your garden.
- Optimal Planting Location: Plant your climbing roses in a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Sunlight enhances the production of essential oils in the roses, which contributes to their fragrance.
- Soil Quality: Use well-draining, nutrient-rich soil to support healthy growth. Amending your soil with organic matter like compost can improve its structure and nutrient content, leading to more vigorous plants and potentially more fragrant blooms.
- Proper Pruning: Regularly prune your climbing roses to encourage new growth and remove dead or diseased wood. This practice not only helps maintain the shape of the plant but also promotes the production of fragrant blooms by allowing more sunlight to reach the foliage.
- Watering Routine: Establish a consistent watering schedule, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Adequate hydration is crucial for the overall health of the plant and can enhance the fragrance of the flowers.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your climbing roses with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Providing the right nutrients will promote healthy growth and flowering, which can lead to more aromatic blooms.
- Pest and Disease Management: Keep an eye out for pests and diseases that can stress the plants and impact their fragrance. Implementing integrated pest management strategies will help maintain the health of your climbing roses, ensuring they produce their best scent.
What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid When Growing Fragrant Climbing Roses?
When growing fragrant climbing roses, there are several common mistakes to avoid for optimal growth and fragrance.
- Neglecting Soil Quality: The health of climbing roses heavily relies on well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. Poor soil can lead to weak growth and limited flowering, which ultimately affects the fragrance.
- Inadequate Sunlight: Climbing roses require at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive and produce their best-smelling blooms. Insufficient sunlight can result in leggy growth and fewer flowers, diminishing the overall scent experience.
- Improper Pruning: Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape and health of climbing roses, but incorrect techniques can harm the plant. Over-pruning can reduce flowering, while under-pruning may lead to overcrowding and poor air circulation, increasing susceptibility to diseases.
- Ignoring Pests and Diseases: Climbing roses are prone to pests like aphids and diseases like powdery mildew. Failing to monitor and manage these issues can weaken the plant and lessen its fragrance output.
- Overwatering: While roses need regular watering, overwatering can lead to root rot and other water-related issues. It’s crucial to allow the soil to dry slightly between watering to encourage healthy root growth and flowering.
- Choosing the Wrong Variety: Not all climbing roses have the same fragrance intensity; selecting varieties known for their strong scent is essential. Researching and choosing the best smelling climbing rose suited for your climate will greatly enhance your garden’s aroma.
How Do Best Smelling Climbing Roses Compare in Terms of Care and Maintenance?
| Aspect | Rose A | Rose B |
|---|---|---|
| Watering needs | Requires regular watering, especially in dry spells. | Prefers deep watering once a week; drought-tolerant. |
| Sunlight requirements | Thrives in full sun, at least 6 hours a day. | Can tolerate partial shade but blooms best in full sun. |
| Pruning frequency | Needs pruning twice a year for optimal growth. | Pruning once a year is sufficient for maintenance. |
| Pest resistance | Moderately resistant to common pests and diseases. | Highly resistant to pests, fewer issues overall. |
| Fertilization needs | Requires balanced fertilizer every spring. | Benefits from organic fertilizer every season. |
| Disease resistance | Moderate resistance to common diseases. | High resistance to diseases like black spot. |
| Fragrance intensity | Strong, sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators. | Delicate, citrus-like scent with moderate intensity. |
| Growth habit | Reaches up to 10 feet in height, spreading 4-6 feet. | Grows up to 8 feet tall, with a spread of 3-5 feet. |
Why Should You Consider Adding Fragrant Climbing Roses to Your Landscape?
Adding fragrant climbing roses to your landscape is beneficial because they enhance the aesthetic appeal and create a sensory experience through their delightful scents and vibrant blooms.
Research from the American Rose Society highlights that fragrant roses have been cultivated for centuries primarily for their olfactory qualities and visual beauty. These climbing varieties, such as the ‘New Dawn’ or ‘Eden’, not only provide vertical interest but also emit captivating fragrances that can transform outdoor spaces into aromatic retreats. The sensory impact of these flowers is well-documented, as scent plays a crucial role in human emotional well-being, often evoking feelings of nostalgia and happiness (American Rose Society, 2021).
The underlying mechanisms driving the appeal of fragrant climbing roses involve both genetic factors and the environment. Roses produce scent through volatile organic compounds, which are released from their petals. The combination of these compounds varies among species and cultivars, resulting in distinct fragrances. Additionally, environmental factors such as sunlight, soil type, and climate can influence the intensity and complexity of the scent produced. Studies show that roses grown in optimal conditions tend to have more pronounced fragrances due to enhanced metabolic activity, which leads to the increased production of aromatic compounds (McCarthy et al., 2019).
Furthermore, the integration of fragrant climbing roses into gardens can attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies, thereby supporting local ecosystems. The relationship between flowering plants and pollinators is symbiotic; while the roses provide nectar and pollen, the pollinators facilitate reproduction by aiding in the transfer of pollen. This not only enhances the health of the climbing roses themselves but also contributes to a thriving garden environment (Klein et al., 2007).
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