Fortune's Double Yellow Rose: Historic China Climber

The Fortune's Double Yellow rose, a China Climber/Hybrid Gigantea/Hybrid Noisette/Species Cross from 1844 by Fortune, is a historic climber with semi-double, buff-yellow flowers that fade to cream. Also known as Beauty of Glazenwood, Gold of Ophir, San Rafael Rose. A treasure from the early days of rose introduction from China.

Classification and Heritage

Family: Rosaceae (ro-ZAY-see-ee)
Genus: Rosa (RO-zuh)
Cultivar: 'Fortune's Double Yellow'
Additional names: Beauty of Glazenwood, Gold of Ophir, San Rafael Rose, San Raphael Rose
Hybridized by: Fortune
Registered/Introduced: 1844
Synonyms: Rosa chinensis var. pseudoindica, Rosa odorata var. pseudindica, Rosa sinica, Rosa X odorata pseudindica

This rose represents the complex hybrids that emerged from early Chinese roses brought to Europe.

Growth Habit and Blooms

Vigorous climber 15–20 feet. Nearly thornless. Flowers 2–3 inches, semi-double, buff-yellow to cream, in clusters. Light fragrance. Spring bloom, sometimes repeat.

Cultivation Tips

• Sunlight: Full sun to part shade.
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile.
• Watering: Regular.
• Pruning: After spring bloom.
• Hardiness: USDA zones 7–10 (tender).

Landscape Uses

Large structures, walls, pergolas in mild climates. Historic collections.