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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Introducing the Library of Roses
Exclusive Introduction Collection Roses
Roses Around the World Collection