Rosa banksiae, commonly known as the Banks’ rose, showcases a delicate palette primarily composed of white and yellow hues. The pure white ‘Alba Plena’ and the pale yellow ‘Lutea’ are among the most widely cultivated varieties. Less frequently encountered, but equally captivating, are variations exhibiting subtle creamy tones and pale apricot shades.
The soft pastel hues of these roses provide a unique aesthetic contribution to gardens and landscapes. Their early and profuse blooming period, often preceding other rose varieties, offers a welcome burst of color in the spring. Historically prized in their native China, these roses were introduced to Western gardens in the early 19th century and quickly gained popularity for their vigorous growth habit and visually pleasing blooms.
