The idea of a rainbow rose plant has taken the internet by storm, luring gardeners and flower lovers with images of vividly multicolored blooms that seem too good to be true. And that’s because they are. Despite what you might see on social media or in online ads, the rainbow rose plant isn’t a naturally occurring species. In fact, it doesn’t exist at all as a true plant you can grow in your garden.

What many people don’t realize is that those striking rainbow roses are artificially dyed. The process involves cutting white roses and placing their stems into water dyed with various food colorings. The petals then absorb the colors through capillary action, creating that kaleidoscopic effect. It’s a fascinating floral trick, but it’s not something that can be grown from seed. Yet countless listings online continue to advertise "rainbow rose seeds," preying on the unknowing with promises of vibrant blooms that simply cannot grow from the ground.

That said, nature has its own way of showing off. While the rainbow rose plant may be a colorful illusion, there are real roses that offer truly stunning color displays. If you’re looking to grow roses with eye-catching hues, consider these three varieties that are both genuine and spectacular.

Three Colorful Roses You Should Grow In Your Garden

Joseph's Coat Climbing Rose

This climbing rose is perhaps the closest natural answer to a rainbow rose. Joseph’s Coat produces medium sized, semi-double, 4" blooms with 12+ petals of cherry-red, deep gold, and orange.

Cosmic Clouds™ Rose

Cosmic Clouds™ is as dreamy as she sounds. This beautiful rose, bred by Christian Bedard, can be grown as a Shrub or Climber. Her large clusters of 2 ½- 3” blooms sparkle in varying shades of purple, beginning in a bright magenta and fading to deep purple with a silver-white reverse. Each bloom has up to 85 petals and a strong, fruit fragrance.

Frida Kahlo™ Rose

A true piece of art, the striking swirl of colors in Frida Kahlo™ intensifies as the flowers age, adding a red blush as the final touch. Her sweet, 3 ½” flowers are set in small clusters on a healthy, disease resistant plant with glossy foliage.

If you're searching for vibrant, unusual roses to add to your collection, it’s better to skip the rainbow rose plant fantasy and invest in varieties that are both real and rewarding. Beautiful, colorful roses do exist! 

Still Not Sure What Colorful Rose You'd Like to Plant in Your Garden?

Take our 2 minute Find Your Perfect Rose Bush Quiz to get tailored recommendations for what will work best with your garden! 

Gardening is at its best when it’s rooted in real beauty. Choose authenticity, and your garden will thank you.