Sorbaria sorbifolia (False spirea)

This rugosa rose has flattened, symmetrical, semi-double, snowy white flowers with a spicy clove scent. The blooms display well against the shrub's dense growth of deep green foliage. Crimson-hued buds add even more color to this lovely variety. The blossoms don't drop cleanly, so deadheading is necessary.

'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.

A well-shaped shrub with dependable repeat bloom, 'Purple Pavement' has purple-red blossoms that are large, semi-double, and ruffled with a clear, bright, nonfading color and potent fragrance. It sports a good display of large, handsome hips and provides excellent fall foliage tones from yellow to maroon. A dependable performer, it is especially good for a late display, as fattening hips mix well with fall asters and other perennials featuring strong autumn hues.

'Wasagaming' (pronounced "wah-SAG-ah-ming") is truly mesmerizing. This prolific bloomer can outperform any other rugosa rose, possessing all the charm of the antique roses but with greater vigor and better growth habit. The cascade of cupped, double, rich pink blossoms spill across the shrub and cast a heavenly old-rose scent throughout the garden. Lovely and undemanding, 'Wasagaming' will thrive in less sunny but still bright conditions.