Glossary of Rose Terms

Everything you want to know about bare root roses

Growing roses can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to be. Here are a list of some of the more commonly used phrases to help you get started.
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Gallica

The oldest class of garden roses, Gallicas were cultivated in Roman and Greek times. Their natural habitat extends through southern Europe from France to Turkey. Recognized for their hardiness, they are once-blooming, compact shrubs.

Grade 1, Grade 1 1/2, Grade 2

A grading system for field-grown, budded roses promulgated by the American Association of Nurserymen in association with the American National Standards Institute. For Hybrid Teas, the standard specifies that a grade #1 plant must have as least three canes with a minimum caliper of 5/l 6" and a preharvest length of 16". Grade # 1 1/2 must have at least 2 such canes. Grade #2 at least one such cane.

Grandiflora

A modern class of roses, similar to the Hybrid Tea, in which clusters of high-centered blooms are presented atop a tall bush. Queen Elizabeth is a Grandiflora.

Groundcover rose

A rose with a prostrate habit that can be used for bedding.