Meet Madame Alfred Carriere: A Vigorous Climbing Noisette Rose

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Posted on 12/04/2024

A Very Vigorous, Drought Resistant, and Shade Tolerant Climbing Rose

Some roses are all about presence, and Madame Alfred Carriere has it in spades. Bred in France in 1875 by Joseph Schwartz, this Noisette rose is part of the Jackson & Perkins Old Garden Rose Collection. Known for its soft white blooms, easygoing nature, and ability to climb with vigor, it's an easy choice for gardeners wanting a rose that feels natural yet undeniably striking.

Elegant Blooms with Subtle Color

Madame Alfred Carriere's flowers are creamy white, often touched with a delicate blush of pink when they first open. The blooms, up to 4 inches across, feature 30 soft, ruffled petals in a relaxed, globular form. The light-to-strong fruity fragrance makes it a beautiful sight and a pleasure to be near. The flowers grow singly or in small clusters and make wonderful cut flowers, perfect for creating simple, fragrant, and stunning arrangements.

A Climber That Works Hard and Looks Effortless

With long, flexible canes that can reach lengths between 8 and 25 feet, Madame Alfred Carriere is a climber with versatility. It can drape elegantly over an arbor, soften the edge of a fence, or climb the height of a wall. If space is tight, it can even be trained to grow on a pillar. Its vigorous growth makes it particularly well-suited to warmer climates, but with a sunny, protected spot and winter care, it can thrive in cooler zones, too.

Flowers All Season Long

Madame Alfred Carriere is a repeat bloomer. It begins the season with a heavy flush of blooms in spring, then continues to flower steadily through summer and into fall. It's often one of the earliest roses to bloom and among the last to fade, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want consistent color in the garden and blooms for the vase.

Low Maintenance and Resilient

Madame Alfred Carriere is surprisingly easy to care for, despite its dramatic growth. It's tolerant of some shade, especially in warmer regions, and once established, it can handle periods of drought. Its glossy, dark green foliage complements the soft white flowers and contributes to its hardiness, standing up well to seasonal shifts.


a single bloom of Mme. Alfred Carriere in shades of pink

What Makes Choose Madame Alfred Carriere So Special?

  • Beautiful and Reliable: Creamy white blooms that repeat throughout the growing season.
  • Versatile Climber: Ideal for arbors, fences, walls, and even small-space garden pillars.
  • Fragrant Blooms: Light to strong fruity fragrance adds sensory appeal.
  • Resilient: Tolerates shade and drought once established.
  • Historic Significance: A Noisette rose with nearly 150 years of history.

Growing Tips for Madame Alfred Carriere

For best results, plant this rose in well-drained soil and full sun. In cooler climates, give it a southern exposure and consider winter protection for optimal performance. Prune after its first flush of blooms to maintain its shape and encourage repeat flowering. Regular feeding with a rose-specific fertilizer will keep it thriving all season long.

Plant a Piece of History into Your Garden

Madame Alfred Carriere is a reminder of historic times when garden spaces were designed for romance and utilized for relaxation. Its easygoing nature and ability to climb and bloom throughout the season make it an exceptional choice for gardeners who want to create a lush, inviting, and private space. Whether draped over an arbor or softening the edge of a wall, this rose brings natural beauty and time-honored character to gardens.


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