Rosa rugosa 'Henry Hudson'

'Polar Ice', also known as 'Polareis,' is one of the most impressive, vigorous, and densely growing rugosa rose varieties, exemplifying every positive trait of a rugosa rose. With clusters of double, slightly nodding flowers, the green buds of 'Polar Ice' open to creamy white blooms with shell pink petals and deeper pink centers. The flowers smell lightly of baby powder, and the new, glossy, lime green foliage smells like strawberries and sweet grass. The fall foliage of this exceptional rose turns the brightest, clearest yellow of all the rugosas.

'Foxi' is an excellently performing new variety of rugosa rose. Large, open, semi-double flowers of rich pink with a nice showing of yellow stamens and a heady fragrance make it an outstanding choice. The blossoms and hips of 'Foxi' are particularly large in proportion to the smaller stature of the overall shrub.

Yellow is an unusual color among rugosa roses, and 'Agnes' is unquestionably the best of the bunch. This variety presents the finest rugosa attributes in both leaf and overall form. The doubled blooms present an old-fashioned appearance and a delightful fragrance more akin to antique roses. Sporting an apricot hue in cooler weather, 'Agnes' turns a soft yellow with warm temperatures.

A lesser-known rugosa rose but one of the best of the crimson doubles, 'Dart's Dash' has large, fragrant blossoms with a typical spicy rugosa perfume. Its flowers are followed by the best and biggest display of showy hips of any rugosa available. Quick to establish, it is an excellent choice for a low hedge.