The bloom does look like SdlM. If you have another one right there to compare it with, and you say it looks and smells a lot like it, maybe that's what it is. Are the leaves very similar too? Read up on Bourbon roses and see if it fits that category. It could be growing differntly being in more shade than the other. There is also a climbing version of SdlM.

Thank you-- yes, the leaves are similar. In fact, everything looks the same except the height/thickness of stems. I was suspecting that's what it was but then a part of me couldn't believe that I just inherited one of these beauties... Souvenir de la Malmaison is by far my favorite rose.

I know what you mean. I am in awe of their beauty and fragrance. I also find it hard to believe that things so lovely are growing right outside my door :)

Wow...it's making me dizzy just looking at it! Old bourbons like that make me feel like I just might have had a past life. I'm strange, I know, and I don;t really believe that, but still...time warp....

Yes, this rose really mesmerizes friends who come visiting... every stage of the bloom is so beautiful to look at, how it opens so slowly. I've had to resist not taking pictures every day, but I do gaze at it every day!

'Souvenir de la Malmaison'. It could be faster growing because it is an established plant and has a more extensive root system. 'Souvenir de la Malmaison' is known for mediocre vigor until well established.

Paul