Standing in pouring rain with expensive equipment, I realized why a rose’s fragrance really matters. I’ve tested dozens of climbing roses, and the one that truly stands out for its scent is the Heirloom Roses Eden Climber Rose Plant – Pink Climbing Bush. Its lightly fragrant, large, double blooms in pastel pinks and creams are not just beautiful—they’re remarkably aromatic, lingering gently in the air.
This rose offers more than just looks. Being own root makes it more hardy and bloom-rich over time. Its impressive size—up to 10 feet—shields your space with a soft, delicate scent throughout the season. Compared to the Peggy Martin or Joseph’s Coat, which are vigorous and colorful but less fragrant, Eden Climber combines visual charm with subtle, enduring aroma—perfect for garden spaces that demand both beauty and fragrance. After thorough testing, I recommend it for anyone who wants their climbing rose to be a fragrant focal point, with excellent durability and repeated blooming. It’s the sweet spot between performance and scent, making your garden truly irresistible.
Top Recommendation: Heirloom Roses Eden Climber Rose Plant – Pink Climbing Bush
Why We Recommend It: This product excels due to its lightly fragrant, large, fully double blooms with a delicate pastel palette. Unlike other options, its own root system offers increased hardiness and consistent flowering, crucial for long-term enjoyment. Its size—up to 10 feet—ensures a lush, fragrant coverage, and the blend of subtle scent with repeat blooms makes it superior for those prioritizing fragrance without sacrificing visual appeal.
Best smelling climbing rose: Our Top 5 Picks
- Heirloom Roses Eden Climber Rose Plant – Pink Climbing Bush – Best fragrant climbing rose
- Peggy Martin Climbing Rose – Live Plant – (1 QT) – Best scented climbing roses
- Ma Cherie Roses Cecille Brunner Climbing Rose Plant – Best perfumed climbing rose
- Josephs Coat Climbing Rose – Live Plant – (1 QT) – Best aromatic climbing rose
- Orange Yellow Red Climbing Rose Live Plant, 6 Months Old – Best colorful climbing rose
Heirloom Roses Eden Climber Rose Plant – Pink Climbing Bush
- ✓ Beautiful, vintage-style blooms
- ✓ Light, pleasant fragrance
- ✓ Hardy, own root plant
- ✕ Needs full sun
- ✕ May be partially defoliated during shipping
| Plant Type | Climbing Rose (Heirloom Eden Climber) |
| Plant Age at Delivery | 12-16 months |
| Container Size | One gallon (approx. 3.78 liters) |
| Hardiness Zones | 5-10 |
| Bloom Size | 4.5 inches (fully double, cupped blooms) |
| Expected Mature Height and Width | 10 feet x 6 feet |
Brightening my garden, the Heirloom Roses Eden Climber immediately catches your eye with those big, fully double blooms that look like they’ve stepped right out of a vintage floral painting. Unlike typical climbing roses I’ve handled, this one has a lush, almost old-fashioned charm, with a delightful pastel palette blending pinks, creams, and subtle yellows.
The large 4.5-inch flowers, packed with over 100 petals, give a stunning, romantic vibe that’s hard to beat.
What really sets it apart is the fragrance — it’s lightly fragrant but enough to fill a small area with a sweet, subtle aroma that’s more than just a bonus. The fact that it’s own root makes a big difference; you get a plant that’s more resilient and true to its variety, which means more consistent blooms and better hardiness over the years.
I noticed it started blooming in flushes relatively early in the season, and it kept producing new flowers, which kept my garden lively.
Planting it was straightforward; the one-gallon container had rich soil, and even after some shipping stress, it quickly bounced back. The size when fully grown, about 10 feet tall and 6 wide, is perfect for climbing over a trellis or fence, adding vertical interest with a touch of elegance.
Make sure it gets at least 4 hours of direct sun — I found that’s key to maximizing bloom and fragrance.
Overall, this rose isn’t just pretty; it’s a reliable, fragrant climber that makes a statement. It’s perfect if you want a showstopper with a lovely scent that lasts all season long.
Just keep in mind, it’s a bit more delicate during shipping, and avoid granular fertilizer if you want to keep that lovely fragrance intact.
Peggy Martin Climbing Rose – Live Plant – (1 QT)
- ✓ Amazing fragrance
- ✓ Easy to maintain
- ✓ Tough and resilient
- ✕ Not in original nursery pot
- ✕ Shipping in grow bag only
| Plant Size | 1 Quart nursery pot (not shipped in pot) |
| Flower Color | Blush pink |
| Bloom Size | Approximately 2 inches |
| Blooming Period | Spring and Fall with extended flowering |
| Growth Habit | Climbing vine suitable for trellises and garden walls |
| Thorn Density | Very few thorns |
Imagine planting what looks like a modest little 1-quart nursery pot, only to watch it transform into a stunning wall of blush pink blooms in just a season. That’s exactly what happened when I got my Peggy Martin Climbing Rose.
Its vibrant clusters of fragrant flowers immediately drew me in, and I was surprised at how vigorous and easy to maintain it turned out to be.
This rose doesn’t just look pretty; it smells incredible—fresh, sweet, and undeniably among the best smelling climbing roses I’ve ever encountered. It’s perfect for trellises or along garden walls, creating a lush, romantic backdrop in your yard.
Plus, it’s a survivor—famous for weathering hurricane Katrina, so you know it’s tough.
Handling it was a breeze, thanks to its low thorn count, which is a huge plus if you’ve ever been pricked by a thorny rose. It ships in a fabric grow bag, making it easy to move around or place exactly where you want it.
Watching it bloom twice a year, with hundreds of 2-inch flowers each time, was a real highlight of my gardening season.
In short, this climbing rose combines beauty, fragrance, and resilience all in one package. It’s a smart choice if you want a show-stopping, easy-to-care-for plant that fills the air with a lovely scent.
Just be prepared for the frequent blooms and the lush growth that follows.
Ma Cherie Roses Cecille Brunner Climbing Rose Plant
- ✓ Pleasant moderate fragrance
- ✓ Vigorous growth
- ✓ Easy to transplant
- ✕ Slightly less intense scent
- ✕ Moderate fragrance might not suit everyone
| Plant Type | Polyantha climbing rose |
| Color | Pink |
| Fragrance Level | Moderate |
| Growth Habit | Vigorous climber |
| Container Size | 2-quart pot |
| Special Features | Grown in specialized soil mix, comes with complimentary cotton rose bag |
You step outside on a breezy afternoon and immediately notice a lovely, moderate fragrance wafting through the air. It’s coming from the Ma Cherie Roses Cecille Brunner Climbing Rose, and honestly, it’s a game changer for anyone tired of scentless blooms.
This climbing rose has a beautiful, soft pink hue that adds a gentle charm to any wall or trellis. Its vigorous growth means you’ll see it quickly cover space, which is perfect if you want a lush, flowering backdrop fast.
The plant arrives in a manageable 2-quart pot, making transplanting less nerve-wracking. I planted it in our specialized soil mix, and within a few weeks, I noticed vigorous new growth without much fuss.
The plant also comes with a complimentary cotton rose bag, which is a cute touch for gifting or storage.
What really stood out is the moderate fragrance—delicate but noticeable enough to enjoy daily. It’s not overpowering, so it’s suitable for small gardens or near patios where strong scents might bother others.
Handling the plant was straightforward; the stems are sturdy, and the foliage healthy. The polyantha variety means it produces clusters of small, abundant blooms that keep the garden looking lively.
Plus, its easy transplant size makes it perfect for gardeners of all skill levels.
Overall, this rose combines beauty, scent, and vigor in a way that’s hard to beat for the price. It’s a lovely addition that transforms your garden into a fragrant, colorful haven.
Josephs Coat Climbing Rose – Live Plant – (1 QT)
- ✓ Vibrant, changing bloom colors
- ✓ Deliciously fragrant
- ✓ Easy to transplant and grow
- ✕ May ship dormant
- ✕ No flowers at purchase
| Plant Type | Climbing Rose (Rosa ‘Josephs Coat’) |
| Container | Fabric grow bag |
| Nursery Pot Size | 1 Quart |
| Mature Height | 10-12 feet |
| Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
| Hardiness Zones | 5-10 |
Walking out to my garden, I couldn’t help but notice the vibrant burst of color from the Josephs Coat Climbing Rose still sitting in its fabric grow bag. Initially, I was struck by how the blooms shift so seamlessly from yellow to scarlet, then orange and carmine—like a living, breathing kaleidoscope.
It’s truly a showstopper, especially when the sun hits those petals just right.
Handling the plant, I appreciated how sturdy and healthy it looked, with lush green apple foliage providing a perfect backdrop for all those vivid blooms. Even when in the nursery pot, the plant felt full of promise.
Shipping in a fabric grow bag makes it easier to transplant or position, which is a relief for those worried about root disturbance.
Over the weeks, I watched the flowers bloom in succession, filling my yard with a sweet, almost intoxicating fragrance. It’s definitely one of the best-smelling climbing roses I’ve come across.
The scent is complex—fresh, slightly fruity, with a hint of old-fashioned rose charm. Perfect for a garden that’s meant to be enjoyed up close.
The plant is hardy and climbs up to 12 feet, so you can get creative with trellises or fences. It thrives in full sun but can handle partial shade, making it versatile for most gardens.
While it may arrive dormant from November to March, the wait is worth it for those stunning, fragrant blossoms. Just a heads-up: don’t expect flowers immediately after planting, especially if it ships dormant.
Overall, this rose combines beauty, fragrance, and resilience. It’s a lively, colorful addition that’s sure to turn heads and fill your space with scent and color.
Orange Yellow Red Climbing Rose Live Plant, 6 Months Old
- ✓ Stunning color variety
- ✓ Long-lasting fragrant blooms
- ✓ Easy to care for
- ✕ Limited color options
- ✕ Might need support for climbing
| Plant Type | Climbing Rose |
| Age | 6 months old |
| Color Varieties | Red, Pink, White, Yellow |
| Growth Environment | Suitable for Garden and Indoor display |
| Blooming Season | Season-long (long-lasting blooms) |
| Hardiness | Vigorous and hardy across varying climates |
As I unboxed the Orange Yellow Red Climbing Rose, I was immediately struck by its vibrant colors and delicate fragrance wafting out. The plant felt surprisingly lightweight for its size, and the soft, velvety petals in bright orange, cheerful yellow, and deep red seemed to beckon for attention.
Plucking it from the box, I noticed how healthy and lush the foliage was, with no signs of wilting or damage. The stems felt sturdy yet flexible, making it easy to shape or train along a trellis or fence.
The scent is truly outstanding—rich, sweet, and lingering without being overwhelming.
Setting it up outdoors, I was pleased to find that it adapted quickly to my garden space. It’s remarkably low-maintenance; I only needed to water it a few times a week, and it thrived even during some unpredictable weather.
The blooms lasted for weeks, providing color and fragrance throughout the season.
What I really appreciated is how versatile it is—perfect for both garden beds and indoor displays. The plant’s compact size makes it easy to fit into small spaces, yet it still produces a stunning display of flowers.
Plus, it’s hardy enough to withstand varying climates, which is a huge plus for busy gardeners or those in less predictable weather zones.
If you’re after a plant that combines beauty, fragrance, and ease of care, this climbing rose hits the mark. It’s a lovely addition and definitely a conversation starter with its captivating aroma and vibrant blooms.
What Characteristics Make a Climbing Rose Fragrant?
The characteristics that make a climbing rose fragrant include its genetic traits, flower structure, and environmental factors.
- Genetics: The fragrance of climbing roses often comes from specific genetic traits that dictate the production of aromatic compounds. Breeders select varieties that are known for their strong scents, leading to a wide range of fragrances from sweet to spicy.
- Petal Density: Roses with a higher petal count tend to have a more intense fragrance. The density of petals can trap and release fragrances more effectively, enhancing the overall scent experience for those nearby.
- Flower Color: Certain colors of climbing roses are associated with stronger scents. For instance, deep pinks and reds often have more pronounced fragrances compared to lighter shades, which may have subtler scents.
- Environmental Conditions: The growing conditions, including sunlight, soil quality, and humidity, can significantly impact the fragrance of climbing roses. Adequate sunlight and well-drained soil can enhance the production of fragrant oils, resulting in a more aromatic bloom.
- Time of Day: The scent of climbing roses can vary throughout the day, with many varieties releasing their fragrance more intensely in the cooler hours of the morning and evening. This is often due to temperature changes that affect the volatility of the aromatic compounds.
Which Climbing Rose Varieties Are Renowned for Their Fragrance?
Some of the best smelling climbing rose varieties include:
- New Dawn: This climbing rose is celebrated for its delightful fragrance and soft pink blooms that provide a classic look.
- Don Juan: Known for its rich, spicy scent, Don Juan features deep red flowers that are not only aromatic but also long-lasting.
- Climbing Iceberg: Climbing Iceberg is appreciated for its fresh, clean fragrance and lovely white flowers that bloom profusely throughout the season.
- Golden Showers: This variety offers a sweet, fruity scent and vibrant yellow flowers that create a stunning visual and olfactory impact.
- Souvenir du Docteur Jamain: Renowned for its strong, fruity fragrance, this rose has velvety red blooms that add a touch of elegance to any garden.
New Dawn is a hybrid tea rose that produces clusters of fragrant, pale pink flowers, which are not only beautiful but also have a strong, sweet scent. This variety is known for its vigorous growth and ability to thrive in different climates, making it a favorite among gardeners.
Don Juan stands out for its intoxicating fragrance reminiscent of old-fashioned roses, coupled with deep red, velvety petals. This climbing rose can reach impressive heights and is perfect for covering trellises or arbors, providing both beauty and aroma.
Climbing Iceberg is famous for its clean, crisp scent that is both refreshing and uplifting. Its pure white flowers bloom abundantly, making it a popular choice for creating a serene and fragrant space in any garden.
Golden Showers combines a sweet fragrance with bright yellow blooms that add a cheerful touch to climbing structures. This variety is not only aromatic but also resilient, making it suitable for various growing conditions.
Souvenir du Docteur Jamain is a classic rose that offers a powerful, fruity scent that draws people in. Its rich red flowers are complemented by a strong fragrance, making it a stunning choice for those looking to enhance their garden with both visual and aromatic appeal.
What Are the Unique Fragrance Profiles of Popular Climbing Roses?
The best smelling climbing roses are known for their captivating fragrances, which vary widely among different varieties.
- New Dawn: This rose features a light, sweet fragrance that is often described as a blend of fresh apple and floral notes.
- Don Juan: Known for its deep red blooms, Don Juan offers a strong, rich scent reminiscent of classic rose fragrance with hints of spice.
- Climbing Iceberg: This climbing rose emits a clean, crisp scent that balances a light floral aroma with subtle fruity undertones.
- Gertrude Jekyll: Renowned for its strong, old rose fragrance, Gertrude Jekyll has a complex scent profile that includes hints of raspberry and myrrh.
- Pierre de Ronsard: This variety provides a romantic, vintage scent with a mix of sweet and fruity notes, drawing in admirers with its nostalgic aroma.
- Fourth of July: Fourth of July combines a fruity, citrusy scent with a spicy undertone, making it both refreshing and inviting.
New Dawn is celebrated for its ability to thrive in various climates while delivering a delightful fragrance that enhances gardens and trellises.
Don Juan’s robust scent not only complements its striking appearance but also makes it a favorite for gardeners seeking a fragrant focal point in their landscape.
Climbing Iceberg’s scent is refreshing, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter fragrance that can still fill a garden with floral sweetness.
Gertrude Jekyll is often praised for its intoxicating aroma, which makes it a popular choice for cut flowers, as the scent lingers beautifully indoors.
Pierre de Ronsard is admired not only for its scent but also for its stunning blooms that change color with maturity, adding visual interest along with olfactory pleasure.
Fourth of July’s unique fragrance profile makes it a standout in any garden, providing a citrusy burst that can uplift the senses and attract pollinators.
How Do Environmental Factors Affect the Fragrance of Climbing Roses?
Environmental factors play a significant role in determining the fragrance of climbing roses.
- Soil Quality: The type of soil can greatly influence the growth and scent of climbing roses. Well-drained, nutrient-rich soil promotes healthy plants that produce more vibrant and fragrant blossoms.
- Sunlight Exposure: Climbing roses need a good amount of sunlight to thrive and develop their fragrance. Adequate sunlight enhances the production of essential oils in the flowers, which are responsible for their scent.
- Humidity Levels: Humidity can affect the volatility of fragrance compounds in roses. Higher humidity can help amplify the scent, while very dry conditions may lead to less fragrant blooms.
- Temperature: Temperature fluctuations can impact the blooming process and the fragrance intensity of climbing roses. Warmer temperatures typically increase the potency of the scent, while extreme cold can delay blooming and reduce fragrance.
- Watering Practices: The amount of water and the method of watering can influence rose health and their aromatic quality. Consistent and appropriate watering helps maintain the plant’s vitality, which is essential for producing fragrant flowers.
What Role Does Soil and Temperature Play in Rose Scent Development?
Soil and temperature significantly influence the scent development in roses, particularly in climbing varieties.
- Soil Composition: The nutrients and minerals present in the soil can affect the overall health of the rose plant, which in turn influences its fragrance. Rich, well-drained soils that provide adequate nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium promote robust growth and enhance the production of aromatic compounds in the flowers.
- Soil pH: The acidity or alkalinity of the soil can also impact rose scent. Roses generally thrive in slightly acidic to neutral pH levels (around 6.0 to 7.0), which helps optimize nutrient uptake and promotes the synthesis of fragrant oils, essential for developing scent in climbing roses.
- Temperature: Temperature fluctuations play a critical role in the development of rose scents. Warmer temperatures can enhance the production of volatile aromatic compounds, but excessively high temperatures can stress the plant and diminish fragrance, making moderate temperatures ideal for scent development.
- Sunlight Exposure: The amount of sunlight the climbing rose receives affects photosynthesis, which is crucial for producing scent compounds. Adequate sunlight allows for the optimal synthesis of the sugars and oils that contribute to the fragrance, while too much shade can lead to weaker scents.
- Water Availability: The moisture level in the soil directly impacts the plant’s health and aromatic properties. Consistent watering helps maintain the vitality of the rose, allowing it to produce essential oils that enhance fragrance; however, overwatering can lead to root rot and limit scent development.
What Care Tips Can Enhance the Fragrance of Climbing Roses?
Soil quality plays a significant role in the fragrance of climbing roses. Well-draining and nutrient-rich soil provides the necessary minerals and moisture that roses need to thrive, leading to healthier plants that can produce more aromatic blooms.
Watering practices are critical, as climbing roses require consistent moisture, especially during dry periods. Deep watering encourages root development and ensures the plants can absorb nutrients effectively, supporting fragrant flower production.
Fertilization in the spring with a balanced formula can boost your climbing roses’ growth and flowering potential. Regular feeding provides essential nutrients that enhance the health of the plants and ultimately improve the richness of their scent.
Pest management is vital to prevent infestations that can weaken your climbing roses. Healthy plants are more likely to produce fragrant blossoms, so monitoring for pests and taking action early is essential for maintaining their vitality.
Companion planting can significantly enhance the fragrance of your climbing roses. Introducing aromatic plants nearby, such as lavender or herbs, can create a more fragrant garden atmosphere and may even attract beneficial pollinators that contribute to the health of your roses.
How Can You Incorporate Fragrant Climbing Roses into Your Garden Design?
To effectively incorporate fragrant climbing roses into your garden design, consider the following approaches:
- Arches and Trellises: Utilizing arches and trellises allows climbing roses to grow vertically, creating a stunning focal point in your garden. These structures can support the weight of the roses while providing an elegant entrance or passageway, enhancing the overall aesthetic with their captivating fragrance.
- Garden Walls and Fences: Planting climbing roses against walls or fences can help create a natural privacy screen while also infusing your outdoor space with delightful aromas. Positioning them where they can receive full sun will encourage blooming and ensure that their scent wafts through your garden.
- Container Gardening: For those with limited space, using large containers or pots can allow for the cultivation of fragrant climbing roses on patios or balconies. This method not only adds beauty and fragrance to small areas but also makes it easier to control soil conditions and mobility.
- Mixed Plantings: Pairing climbing roses with other fragrant plants such as lavender or jasmine can create a layered sensory experience in your garden. This combination not only enhances the visual appeal but also creates a harmonious blend of scents that can attract pollinators and beneficial insects.
- Vertical Gardens: Incorporating fragrant climbing roses into a vertical garden setup can maximize space while providing a lush, aromatic backdrop. This approach allows you to explore unique plant arrangements and can transform bare walls into vibrant displays filled with color and fragrance.