Rose - Souvenier de la Malmaison

Common Name:
Rose 'Souvenir de la Malmaison'

Description:
Rose 'Souvenir de la Malmaison' is a treasured heritage Bourbon rose, revered for its large, fully double blooms in soft, creamy blush pink with a rich, old-fashioned fragrance. First introduced in 1843 and named after Empress Joséphine’s famous rose garden at Château de Malmaison in France, this variety has stood the test of time for its beauty, history, and scent. The blooms are flat and quartered, often opening in a delicate rosette shape with layers of ruffled petals. It flowers prolifically in spring and autumn, with occasional blooms in summer, and is especially suited to cooler climates like Melbourne’s. The shrub grows with a slightly spreading, bushy form, bearing dark green foliage that contrasts beautifully with the pastel blooms. Best grown in full sun with rich, well-drained soil, 'Souvenir de la Malmaison' benefits from protection against heavy rain while in bud, as its dense flowers can be susceptible to balling in humid conditions. A romantic and historical addition to any garden, it’s ideal for borders, heritage beds, or feature planting in containers.

Form:
Shrub - Medium

Mature Size:
Height: 1.2–1.5 m
Width: 1–1.2 m

Aspect:
Full Sun
Part Shade

Flowering:
Flowers in Spring
Flowers in Summer (lightly)
Flowers in Autumn

Flower Colour:
Blush pink
Creamy pale pink

Key Attributes:
Suitable for Pots
Scented flowers
Heritage Variety
Perennial
Suitable for Cut Flowers
Bee Attracting

Toxicity:
May be mildly toxic to pets (particularly dogs and cats) if ingested – can cause gastrointestinal irritation. Thorns may also cause physical injury.

Companion Plants:
Lavender
Catmint (Nepeta)
Salvia
Penstemon
Lamb's Ear (Stachys byzantina)
Boxwood (Buxus)