Old Roses

by Graham Murphy

This series of books celebrates some of the most beautiful, oldest, and well-loved flowers. Each book in the series looks at a different theme, and through images by leading flower photographers, reveals overlooked cultivars or rare species. Before looking at over 30 different species, each book investigates the plant in history, art, perfume, and medicine. Practical information is also included in each book, from pruning and plantings to suppliers' contact information. The passion for roses has been with us for centuries, ranging from the time of the ancient Persians. Old Roses is a beautifully illustrated guide to 33 classic varieties.

96 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 2003

Reviews

[Pamela Conley · Rating 5 out of 5]

My husband found this book at a library discard sale for some ridiculous price like fifty cents. I started to read it and in a house cleaning frenzy it got shoved to back of a bookshelf. I Recently "found" it and pulled it out. For a book that at it's face looks to be a coffee table book of beautiful pictures there is an enormous amount of information on old roses. The evolutionary history of roses is explained as is the origin and geography of many more modern roses that came from these old grandparents. Many additional sources are cited, so many so that I have a new reading list at least as long as my arm. If you are a rose person I highly suggest a search through Amazon or half.com for a copy. My only criticism it that growing zones for each rose isn't listed. I have the power of the internet and that can be researched but if this book were being written today I would recommend the addition of that information.