From the author of very successful Secret Gardens, this is a visually stunning celebration of England's favourite flower: its long history and rich symbolism; the beauty and diversity of its flowers, foliage and habit; its wonderful fragrances; and, above all, its amazing versatility. The National Trust owns many of the most famous and beloved rose gardens in this country, including Mottisfont, which has over 500 varieties, and the legendary Sissinghurst, where all NT gardeners are sent to learn the art of rose pruning. As well as showcasing 25 of these gardens, Roses and Rose Gardens spotlights 20 varieties of rose to talk about in detail, describing the individual quality of each rose – why it makes it a good choice, where you can grow it and suggestions on how you might combine it with other plants.
Claire Masset is currently the Guidebooks Publisher for the National Trust. She was formerly the Gardens Editor of The English Garden Magazine and freelance journalist for publications including Country Life and Gardens Illustrated. She is the author of Department Stores, Orchards and Tea for Shire Publishing.
"A concise and accessible introduction to this enduringly beloved flower."
– Gardens Illustrated
"much-needed book [...] it's ideal for anyone beginning to fall under the spell of roses and will inspire them to plunge in deeper."
– Country Life magazine
"This book is so evocative you can almost smell the scent of roses coming off the page"
– The Daily Mail, 'Best Gardening Books of 2019'