Banshee Damask Shrub Rose: Ancient Pink Fragrance from 1773

The Banshee rose is a Damask/Shrub class cultivar dating to 1773, making it one of the oldest roses in cultivation. Its hybridizer is unknown, but its lineage traces to the ancient Damask roses prized for their intense fragrance and use in perfumery.

Classification and Heritage

Family: Rosaceae (ro-ZAY-see-ee)
Genus: Rosa (RO-zuh)
Cultivar: 'Banshee'
Hybridized by: Unknown
Registered/Introduced: 1773

Damask roses are a historic group known for their strong, sweet perfume and summer bloom. Banshee carries this heritage with clear pink, semi-double flowers.

Growth Habit and Blooms

Arching shrub 4–6 feet tall. Grey-green, downy foliage. Blooms once in early summer with a spectacular display of fragrant, 3-inch flowers. Hips are ornamental in autumn.

Cultivation Tips

• Sunlight: Full sun.
• Soil: Rich, well-drained, alkaline tolerant.
• Watering: Moderate.
• Pruning: After flowering; remove oldest canes at base.
• Hardiness: USDA zones 4–9 (very cold hardy).

Landscape Uses

Excellent for heritage gardens, shrub borders, or as a fragrant hedge. The hips provide winter interest and bird food.