A.k.a. Old Velvet Moss. Clusters of double purple-crimson scented blooms which fade to lavender-grey. A vigorous grower. Suitable for the back of a border. Summer flowering. Size: 2.1m x 1.6m.
William Lobb
From £16.95
About William Lobb rose:
| Rose Group | Moss Rose |
| Breeder | Laffay |
| Date of Introduction | 1855 |
| Colour | Purple |
| Flower Form | Double |
| Height | Tall |
| Flowering Period | Summer |
| Fragrance | Strong |
| Awards | RHS Award of Garden Merit |
| Disease Resistance | Moderate |
| Hardiness Zone | 5 -what’s this? |
Good for Pillars/Obelisks, Suitable for Walls/Fences, Named Rose
More about Moss Roses:
Moss Roses first appeared as mutations of Centifolia roses in 1720, in which the sepal, calyx and stems have a mossy growth. This is particularly attractive in the bud stage and has a noticeable balsam-like fragrance when touched. Later repeat flowering and more compact hybrids evolved from the Damask roses, although these do tend to be rather less mossy. Very popular with the Victorians who relished such curiosities.
Pruning Guide: Requires little pruning except for the removal of very old wood once established (after flowering) and perhaps the shortening of any growths by one third in February.
Read our blog on how to prepare the ground for your bareroot William Lobb rose, or for more information on caring for and pruning once-flowering shrub roses, visit the RHS website.
And don’t forget, we also stock a variety of excellent rose care products to ensure you get the best from your roses. Browse our rose care products here.
We are completely sold out of potted stock of this rose for 2026. The next buying opportunity is bareroot for autumn/winter delivery.
