We needed a smallish old-fashioned looking rose with good fragrance. Because we were skeptical about the brutally sunny location we chose for her, we planted Queen of Elegance in a large movable container and were pleased that she bloomed 1st year—though looking perhaps a bit sad. We moved her indoors due to extreme cold and discovered she had sent an enormous root through her container's base and deep into the ground . No wonder she was such a survivor and, even with the loss of this adventurous and determined root, she survived the winter with little complaint about her temporary overnights in our garage. In spring, she was bursting with new growth, so we planted her in the same spot where she had been spending her time with us. Sadly, we had to move shortly afterward, but she presented a righteous display for our for-sale photo images. Our only disappointment was the unimpressive fragrance she manifested despite claims to the contrary. Still, we are certain she will please her new owners with vigor and loveliness for years to come.

Why only 4 stars? This rose is very prone to blackspot. You will need to watch her leaves and remove them regularly. Having said that, everything else about her is utterly charming. She grows fast and will bloom continuously so long as she is getting enough food and water. She is fragrant the first year, though her scent deepens over time. Mine are 2 years old and thriving in a large 2x3' pot. The fragrance is even more intense this year than last. The roses are huge and I think they become more beautiful the longer they stay on the plant, They start off as a deep pink and soften each day, becoming mauve, then dusty rose, then especially pale, all while holding their fragrance. The blooms are huge and fluffy and pretty even from some distance. I do not regret this purchase in the least, this rose is has been my first to bloom this year and I am so pleased with it.