Cardinal de Richelieu
Best unique bloom for gardeners seeking historical charm.
The Cardinal de Richelieu rose, introduced in 1845, is a Gallica variety known for its deeply purple, fully double blooms with near-white reverses, creating a dramatic visual effect. This cultivar can be maintained as a modest shrub on its own roots or grown as an eight-foot climber in warmer climates. It is noted for performing well in warmer regions, suggesting a potential cross with China roses. This variety is also nearly thornless and is considered good for cutting.
$26.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
2378
/ 4677
#2378 in Landscaping & Garden Plants
Price vs Category Average
-2%
Below average
Bloom Size
2.5
/ inches
Who it's for
- Gardeners desiring a striking, unique color and visual drama
- Scent enthusiasts and those appreciating traditional rose aromas
- Gardeners seeking resilient, healthy plants with minimal fuss
Who should skip it
- Those expecting continuous flowering throughout the entire growing season
- Gardeners preferring contained growth and less frequent maintenance tasks
- Designers with bright palettes or those who prefer lighter, more varied rose colors
Performance breakdown
Visual Impact
Deep purple double blooms create a striking, dramatic focal point.
Handling Ease
The nearly thornless stems make pruning and maintenance remarkably painless.
Fragrance Intensity
Strong, classic scent profile that elevates any garden space.
Climate Versatility
Adapts well to warmer regions while maintaining hardiness in zone five.
Cut Flower Utility
Excellent for indoor arrangements thanks to its unique color and form.
Growth Flexibility
Versatile habit allows for training as a shrub or climbing rose.
Key Specs
Bloom Size
2.5 inches
Bloom Type
Fully Double
Class
Gallica
Color
Mauve and Mauve Blend
Fragrance
fff
Height
5-6 Feet
Thorns
Thornless or Nearly Thornless
Zone
5-9
Features
- Deep purple blooms with near-white reverses
- Can be grown as a shrub or climber
- Nearly thornless
- Good for cutting
- Performs well in warm climates
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the exceptional quality and unique design of this rose. Its striking deep purple blooms are a standout, often described as velvety and rich, making it a captivating focal point in any garden. Gardeners appreciate its robust health and vigorous growth, leading to a reliable display of its distinctive flowers. The plant's overall hardiness and consistent performance contribute significantly to its high regard, making it a cherished addition for those seeking both beauty and resilience.
Know before you buy
Yes, while it is naturally a shrub, it can be trained as a climber reaching up to eight feet, particularly in warmer climates.
Absolutely. Its fully double, deep purple blooms make it an excellent choice for cut flowers, and the nearly thornless stems make them much easier to handle than most varieties.
Unlike many other Gallica roses, the Cardinal de Richelieu performs notably well in warmer regions, likely due to its heritage. It is hardy in zones 5 through 9.
Yes, it is rated with a high fragrance level, providing a classic, rich rose scent that complements its dramatic visual appearance.
As a shrub, it typically reaches a height of 5 to 6 feet. If you choose to train it as a climber, ensure you have a sturdy support structure capable of handling its potential 8-foot reach.
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$27