old fashioned rose bush

Why Choose an Old Fashioned Rose Bush?

Old fashioned roses, sometimes called heritage or antique roses, are celebrated for their lush blossoms, delightful perfume, and robust nature. Unlike modern hybrids, the old fashioned rose bush typically blooms in generous flushes, filling the garden with fragrance and soft, romantic colours. Their beautiful, full-petalled flowers and resilient, easy-care habits make them a top choice for New Zealand gardeners who value both appearance and garden performance.

Planting and Caring for Old Fashioned Roses

When you add an old fashioned rose bush to your landscape, you’re not just planting a flower—you’re reviving a piece of horticultural history. These roses thrive in sunny sites with rich, well-drained soil. Give them a sheltered spot with good air circulation and water deeply during dry spells to encourage the best display. Pruning in winter keeps your rose bush healthy and blooming vigorously while feeding with a slow-release fertiliser in spring ensures abundant flowers.

If you’re looking to expand your flower garden’s colour palette or explore companion planting ideas, browse our range of compatible perennials. For instance, the Hemerocallis Rose Cherub (Rose Daylily) offers a lovely contrast in both colour and texture, making a stunning partner for your classic roses. Or, add structure and foliage interest with the Weigela Wine And Roses (Wine & Roses Weigela), whose dark leaves and pink blossoms complement traditional roses beautifully.

Popular Old Fashioned Rose Varieties

Some of the most sought-after garden roses remain those with an old world pedigree. The compact and sweetly-scented Rose Cecil Brunner is a timeless favourite, renowned for its soft pink, peony-shaped blooms. For a touch of modern romance with a classic twist, consider the hardy Rose Diamonds Forever or the rich mauve Rose Simplicity Violet Serenity. Each evoking the spirit of old fashioned gardens but with enhanced disease resistance and repeat flowering.

Create Your Own Traditional Rose Garden

Designing a garden around an old fashioned rose bush brings lasting structure, fragrance, and charm. Underplant with perennials and edges of lavender or catmint to invite pollinators, prolong the season’s interest, and create those timeless layers seen in classical landscapes. With our curated range of roses and companion plants, you can design a garden that celebrates the glory and romance of the past—adapting easily to modern lifestyles.

Let us help you select the perfect old fashioned rose bush for your Waikato, Auckland, or nationwide garden. When you grow these classic beauties, you’re not only nurturing a living tradition, but setting the scene for generations of memories to come.