I had to wait until this was available last year, and the plant I received was on the small side so I didn't hold out a lot of hope that it would do well. I was taking a chance putting it in a less than perfect site in my zone 7 hot and humid south Jersey yard. It gets shade for part of the day and is right next to a concrete pad for my shed. Not bothered at all! I can't imagine if I had given this rose great conditions what it would look like. She had a few leaves of black spot when my other roses were covered with it. Leaves are dark green and glossy and it seems less troubled by insects than my others as well. Huge flower buds ready to burst open this spring and there are 3 almost frighteningly large shoots coming from the base already! I got this to train over my shed and it looks like I'll be able to cover the roof of it this summer. This is seriously the overall best performing rose in my garden, and I had never heard of it before Heirloom Roses.