Understanding Tall Roses: Climbers vs. Non-Climbers

When gardeners ask, which rose bushes grow tall, the answer often depends on whether you’re considering a climbing rose or a tall shrub rose.

- Climbing Roses: These varieties don’t climb on their own like vines, but their long, arching canes can be trained onto trellises, arbors, or fences. With support, they can easily reach 8–15 feet or more, creating dramatic vertical displays.

- Non-Climbing Roses: Some shrub or grandiflora roses can reach 5–7 feet, but they generally grow more upright and bushy, without the long canes needed for training up structures.

If you’re looking for truly tall roses, climbing roses are the best choice for adding height and structure to your garden.

Three Beautiful Tall Climbing Roses

Zephirine Drouhin

This nearly thornless climbing rose is a favorite for entryways and arbors. It produces fragrant, deep pink blooms that repeat throughout the season. Zephirine Drouhin can grow 10–15 feet tall, making it a stunning option for vertical spaces.

Polka

Polka is known for its large, apricot-colored blooms with a sweet fragrance. A vigorous climber, it can grow 10–12 feet tall and rewards gardeners with generous flushes of ruffled flowers throughout the season.

Arborose Honeymoon

This romantic white climbing rose offers clusters of creamy blooms with a light fragrance. Arborose Honeymoon reaches 8–10 feet, making it a graceful choice for trellises, pergolas, or fences where height and elegance are desired.

Explore More Climbing Roses

Looking for even more tall roses to transform your garden? Explore our full Climbing Roses Collection for dozens of stunning varieties that add vertical beauty and fragrance to any space.

Still Not Sure? Take Our Quiz

Not sure which rose is right for your garden? Try our Find Your Perfect Rose Bush Quiz and discover the ideal rose variety based on your space, preferences, and growing conditions.