My "Apothecary's Rose" has been giving me the run about the past few years... that's what it was labled and that's what someone else assured me it was...

Well it drove me nuts today looking at it - couldn't me THAT much of a mutant, it's way too dark and doubled...

Those of you who received them from past swaps and they lived - and those who get them this year - it IS a Rosa Gallica indeed, but a bit better quality one! It's "Tuscan Superb" NOT "Apothecary's". One of the darkest roses (and friendliest, no serious thorns and a nice low hedging habit) there is! I'm a bit embarrassed, but not in the least upset - it's a VERY VERY old variety, and very hardy here. It's other name is "The Velvet Rose" for it's softness and depth of color. I'll bring some blossoms when I bring the plants :)

-Marie