Rosa Mundi is an amazing Gallica rose with a shady past!
Gallicas are the oldest of the garden roses, having been grown by the Greeks and Romans! Gallicas are spring blooming shrubs with wonderfully fragrant blooms of pink, red and even some purples.
Rosa Mundi is the earliest known stripped rose and dates back to the 1500s.
Legend has it that Rosa Mundi was named after Fair Rosa- mund, a mistress of Henry II, England’s monarch from 1154 to 1189. In The Book of Old Roses, Trevor Griffiths tells the story of their tragic affair. Henry was forced to marry a princess who, brooking no competition, is said to have murdered the lovely Rosamund. By Henry’s order, Rosamund was buried at Godstow Nunnery near Oxford, England, and each year on the anniversary of her death, he ordered her tomb to be decorated with masses of Rosa Mundi. -Virginia Kean / Historical Rose Society
I have 3 of these roses. She is a one-time bloomer that requires very little care … and let me tell you, she is a beautiful charmer! I can see why Henry chose her to adorn Rosamunde’s grave. 🙂
I think that this is my favorite rose (at the moment). The strips of dark pink are so striking. Your post has inspired me to really check her growing zone. I would love it if I could have her here in 9b!
She grows into a big shrub! She is recommended to 8b Zone.
She is vibrant and lovely.
So pretty….and I love hearing about the historical folklore and legends of plant various materials. *Pinning!*
I love the history behind the plants too… Keeps things interesting for sure!
Yes that is a beautiful rose. I love the striations.
Lovely!
Thank you for a lovely story and a truly wonderful rose. I am always looking for something new for my garden; this looks like a very appealing choice.
Thanks Charlie. Don’t the stories behind the roses add so much to our gardening experience!
What a gorgeous striped rose. I love the idea of our ancestors enjoying her blooms too.
Glad you enjoyed the story. Knowing the history of the rosé sure makes me feel attached to other generations in a special way!