Reine des Violettes brings distinctive shades of color to the garden. Its full flowers open in magenta and purplish-pink tones, which may soften to violet and lilac as they fade. The petals form a beautiful, often quartered rosette. A classic rose fragrance completes its romantic appeal.

This historic rose was introduced in 1860 by French breeder Millet-Malet, shortly before the Belle Époque. Its name means “queen of the violets” and suits its lovely display of purple hues. It belongs to the hybrid perpetuals: nineteenth-century roses that combine the full flower form of old garden roses with repeat flowering.

Reine des Violettes forms an elegant shrub with gray-green foliage and nearly thornless stems. Its flowers appear from June, with new flushes throughout summer and early autumn.

Its color looks lovely alongside soft pink and white roses. Silver-leaved perennials also make an attractive pairing. Plant it beside a garden path or seating area so you can enjoy its fragrance and delicate flowers up close.

Plant Reine des Violettes in fertile, well-drained soil, in full sun or light partial shade. Some protection from the strongest midday sun can help preserve its flower color for longer. Remove spent flowers and water at the base during dry spells to encourage repeat flowering.