Climbing Polyantha 'Russell's Cottage Rose': An 1826 Heirloom

Dating to 1826, 'Russell's Cottage Rose' (also known as Cottage Rose, Grevillei scarlet, Old Spanish Rose, Russelliana, Scarlet Grevillea) is a living artifact from the dawn of modern rose breeding. Hybridized by Russell, this climbing polyantha produces cascades of small, semi-double scarlet flowers—a color breakthrough for its era.

Botanical Profile

The flowers are small but produced in enormous trusses that cover the flexible canes in early summer, creating a waterfall of scarlet. The plant is vigorous, reaching 10-15 feet as a climber, with light green foliage and few thorns. Its polyantha heritage means exceptional floriferousness and a neat, twiggy habit. The many synonyms reflect its wide distribution in 19th-century gardens across Europe and America. 'Russell's Cottage Rose' is a time traveler—a rose that would be recognized by a Regency gardener, yet still performs beautifully on a modern pergola.