If you’re searching for the best climbing rose plants, you’re likely looking for varieties that offer vibrant blooms, strong growth, and reliable performance. The Ma Cherie Roses – Eden Rose stands out as the overall top choice thanks to its lush pink blossoms and disease resistance. Among other notable options, the Proven Winners Rise Up Ringo is praised for its vigorous growth and unique color, while the Don Juan Red Climbing Rose offers striking deep-red blooms for a dramatic effect. However, choosing the right climbing rose involves balancing factors like fragrance, hardiness, and maintenance needs. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of the best options and how to pick the perfect climbing rose for your garden.
Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked roses excel in bloom quality, fragrance, and resilience across various climates.
- Many of the best climbing roses are vigorous growers, but this can mean higher maintenance or pruning requirements.
- Varieties with vibrant color or unique bloom forms often come with tradeoffs in disease resistance or durability.
- Own root plants tend to establish faster and are generally more hardy than grafted options, though they may have a shorter lifespan.
- Price often correlates with plant maturity and bloom quality, but the most expensive isn’t always the best fit for every gardener.
| Ma Cherie Roses – Eden Rose Climbing Rose Live Plant, Pink Climbing Rose, 2 Quart Potted |  | Best Overall Climbing Rose for Vibrant, Year-Round Blooms | Plant Type: Climbing Rose | Color: Pink | Size: 2 Quart | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Proven Winners Rise Up Ringo Climbing Rose Shrub, 2 Gal. |  | Best for Versatile Landscape Use and Low Maintenance | USDA zones: 4-9 | Mature size: 24-36 inches W x 36-60 inches H | Sun exposure: Full sun to partial shade | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ma Cherie Roses – Don Juan Red Climbing Roses Live Plants, 2 Quart Pot |  | Best Fragrant, Large-Bloom Red Climber for Year-Round Display | Color: Red | Type: Climbing Rose | Bloom Size: Large | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Heirloom Climbing Roses, Arborose Honeymoon – Live Own Root Plant for Outdoor Garden |  | Best for Repeat Blooming and Moderate Fragrance | Type: Climbing Rose | Variety: Arborose Honeymoon | Hardiness Zones: 5-9 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Alchymist Climbing Rose, 2 Quart Potted Rose Live Plant, Garden Roses, Rose Bushes |  | Best for Vibrant, One-Time Blooms with Strong Fragrance | Bloom Color: Apricot with hints of peach and gold | Plant Size: Grows 6-20 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide | Bloom Season: Spring or summer | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Heirloom Climbing Roses, Live Own Root Plant for Outdoor Garden, Polka®, Very Fragrant, Hardiness Zones 5-10 |  | Best Overall Climbing Rose for Fragrance and Longevity | Type: Climbing Rose | Variety: Polka® | Hardiness Zones: 5-10 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ma Cherie Roses – Cecille Brunner Climbing Rose Live Plant, 2 Quart Pot |  | Best for Vigorous Growth and Ready-to-Plant Convenience | Plant Type: Climbing Rose | Color: Pink | Size: 2 Quart Pot | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Heirloom Climbing Roses – Eden Climber – Live Own Root Plant for Outdoor Garden |  | Best for Repeat Blooming with Light Fragrance | Type: Climbing Rose | Variety: Eden Climber | Root Type: Own Root | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Heirloom Climbing Roses Arborose Florentina – Live Own Root Plant for Outdoor Garden |  | Best for Continuous Blooming with Moderate Fragrance | Hardiness Zones: 5-10 | Expected Height: 7 feet | Planting Period: Spring to Fall | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Peggy Martin Climbing Rose – Live Plant (1 Quart) |  | Best for Vigorous, Low-Thorn Pink Blooms in Tall Growth | Mature Height: 10-15 Feet | Mature Width: 12-15 Feet | Exposure: Full Sun to partial shade | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Peggy Martin Climbing Rose – 12-16″ Tall Live Plant in Gallon Pot |  | Best Resilient Climber for Challenging Conditions | Height: 12-16 inches | Pot Size: Gallon | Flower Color: Pink | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ma Cherie Roses – Eden Rose Climbing Rose Live Plant, Pink Climbing Rose, 2 Quart Potted
This Eden Rose stands out for its vigorous growth and continuous flowering, making it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a reliable, eye-catching climber. Compared with the Heirloom Arborose Honeymoon, which blooms repeatedly but may need more careful support, Eden Rose offers lush, large pink blooms with minimal fuss. Its quick growth and year-round flowering reduce the waiting time to enjoy full floral displays. However, the plant’s climate adaptability isn’t specified, which might limit success in extreme zones. Its lack of detailed mature size data could also be a concern for those planning tight spaces.
Pros:- Vigorous and healthy growth
- Blooms year-round
- Easy to plant and grow quickly
Cons:- Limited information on climate adaptability
- Potentially seasonal bloom intensity
Best for: Gardeners wanting a low-maintenance, vibrant climber with continuous blooms and quick establishment
Not ideal for: Regions with extreme climate conditions without further hardiness info, or gardeners needing precise mature size details
- Plant Type:Climbing Rose
- Color:Pink
- Size:2 Quart
- Blooming Period:Year Round
- Root Type:Own root
Our verdict“This pick is ideal for gardeners seeking a reliable, colorful climbing rose that blooms throughout the year.”
Proven Winners Rise Up Ringo Climbing Rose Shrub, 2 Gal.
Compared with the Ma Cherie Eden Rose, the Rise Up Ringo is more suited for gardeners in USDA zones 4-9, offering a compact, manageable size that fits well in small gardens or containers. Its low-maintenance nature and shipment while dormant help ensure healthy establishment. While it may lack the show-stopping blooms of more fragrant varieties like Don Juan, its adaptability and ease of care make it a practical choice for those new to climbing roses. Keep in mind, the loss of foliage in winter might affect its visual appeal, especially in colder zones.
Pros:- Suitable for a wide range of USDA zones
- Low maintenance and shipped dormant
- Versatile for containers and landscape use
Cons:- Foliage loss in winter affects appearance
- Requires spacing of 24 inches for best growth
Best for: Gardeners in zones 4-9 seeking a low-effort, versatile climber for containers or landscape accents
Not ideal for: Those in very cold or very hot climates who need more resilient, evergreen options
- USDA zones:4-9
- Mature size:24-36 inches W x 36-60 inches H
- Sun exposure:Full sun to partial shade
- Deciduous:Yes
- Uses:Containers, landscapes, accents
Our verdict“This rose is well-suited for gardeners who want a hardy, low-maintenance climbing rose for year-round landscape accents.”
Ma Cherie Roses – Don Juan Red Climbing Roses Live Plants, 2 Quart Pot
This Don Juan variety offers a striking combination of large, fragrant red blooms and year-round flowering, making it a standout for gardeners who prioritize scent and visual impact. Unlike the Eden Rose, which focuses on pink blooms, Don Juan’s vibrant red flowers provide bold color and a strong fragrance that appeals to sensory gardeners. It grows quickly to maturity, but requires sturdy support and regular pruning to maintain its shape. Its continuous blooming is a plus, but the need for consistent support might be a hurdle for some.
Pros:- Strong fragrance and large blooms
- Year-round flowering
- Grows very fast to mature size
Cons:- Requires support for climbing
- Needs regular pruning to keep shape
Best for: Gardeners seeking a fragrant, high-impact climber that blooms year-round and makes a visual statement
Not ideal for: Those who prefer low-maintenance plants or lack space for support structures
- Color:Red
- Type:Climbing Rose
- Bloom Size:Large
- Blooming Period:Year Round
- Pot Size:2 quart
Our verdict“This rose is perfect for fragrance lovers and gardeners wanting a dramatic, year-round floral display with bold color.”
Heirloom Climbing Roses, Arborose Honeymoon – Live Own Root Plant for Outdoor Garden
Compared to the Ma Cherie Eden Rose, the Arborose Honeymoon is ideal for those who want a climbing rose that blooms repeatedly throughout the season. Its moderate fragrance offers a subtle scent for those sensitive to strong aromas. While it arrives healthy and ready to grow in zones 5-9, it might require some defoliation during shipping, and its eventual size—up to 7 feet tall—means it needs ample space. Its repeat blooming makes it more suitable for continuous garden interest than for gardeners who prefer a single, showy flush each year.
Pros:- Repeat blooming throughout the season
- Moderately fragrant flowers
- Hardy in zones 5-9
Cons:- May be partially defoliated during shipping
- Requires ample space for full growth
Best for: Gardeners in zones 5-9 wanting a hardy, repeatedly blooming climbing rose with moderate fragrance
Not ideal for: Those in zones outside 5-9 or gardeners seeking highly fragrant, intensely scented roses
- Type:Climbing Rose
- Variety:Arborose Honeymoon
- Hardiness Zones:5-9
- Size at Maturity:7′ x 4′
- Container Size:1 gallon
Our verdict“This variety is suitable for those wanting a hardy, repeatedly flowering climbing rose with moderate scent in temperate zones.”
Alchymist Climbing Rose, 2 Quart Potted Rose Live Plant, Garden Roses, Rose Bushes
Compared with the Ma Cherie Eden Rose or Don Juan, the Alchymist offers a bold, once-blooming display of large, fragrant apricot flowers that add vibrant color and a touch of elegance. Its own-root propagation provides good disease resistance and hardy growth, making it suitable for trellises or arbors. However, its single-bloom season means it won’t provide year-round color, and its tall growth—up to 20 feet—demands ample space and support. This makes it ideal for those seeking a spectacular, seasonal show rather than continuous flowering.
Pros:- Vibrant apricot blooms with strong fragrance
- Hardy own-root plant with disease resistance
- Suitable for trellises and arbors
Cons:- Blooms only once per season
- Requires support for climbing and space for tall growth
Best for: Gardeners wanting a striking, vibrant climber for a seasonal display with strong fragrance
Not ideal for: Those seeking year-round blooms or limited space for support and height
- Bloom Color:Apricot with hints of peach and gold
- Plant Size:Grows 6-20 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide
- Bloom Season:Spring or summer
- Root Type:Own-root
- Pot Size:2-quart
Our verdict“This rose is perfect for those looking for a show-stopping, fragrant seasonal climber in a garden setting.”
Heirloom Climbing Roses, Live Own Root Plant for Outdoor Garden, Polka®, Very Fragrant, Hardiness Zones 5-10
This Polka® climbing rose stands out for its rich fragrance and continual blooming, making it ideal for gardeners seeking a sensory experience and persistent color. Unlike the Eden Climber, which offers lightly fragrant flowers, Polka® delivers a more intense scent paired with robust, ongoing blooms. The own root nature of this plant promotes stronger, healthier growth, but it arrives partially defoliated and smaller than its mature size, which could delay initial flowering. Its suitability for zones 5-10 and its tall, wide growth habit make it a versatile choice for larger gardens with cooler climates. However, its size at arrival requires patience and space, and it demands specific hardiness zones for best results.
Pros:- Very fragrant with continuous blooming throughout the season
- Own root plants tend to be more resilient and produce more blooms
- Suitable for a broad hardiness zone range (5-10)
Cons:- Plants arrive partially defoliated, requiring patience to establish
- Size at delivery is smaller than mature height, delaying full display
Best for: Gardeners who prioritize fragrance and long-season blooms in zones 5-10 with ample space.
Not ideal for: Small gardens or container growers needing a compact, less demanding plant, due to its size and growth habit.
- Type:Climbing Rose
- Variety:Polka®
- Hardiness Zones:5-10
- Container Size:1 gallon
- Approximate Size:9-10 ft x 6 ft
- Age:12-16 months
Our verdict“This rose is perfect for gardeners seeking a fragrant, reliable climber with long-lasting blooms, provided they have space and patience.”
Ma Cherie Roses – Cecille Brunner Climbing Rose Live Plant, 2 Quart Pot
This pink-flowered climbing rose is a vigorous, healthy choice that arrives in a manageable 2-quart pot, ready for planting. Compared with Heirloom Polka®, it offers a slightly more compact size at planting but lacks detailed info on bloom size and flowering season, which could pose questions for those seeking specific display periods. Its moderate fragrance makes it suitable for those who prefer a subtle scent. The included cotton rose bag adds value, and its vigorous growth makes it suitable for quick coverage on trellises or fences. However, the lack of detailed bloom characteristics and flower season information may be a drawback for meticulous gardeners.
Pros:- Vigorous and healthy growth ensures quick coverage
- Ready-to-plant size facilitates immediate garden integration
- Includes a free cotton rose bag for added value
Cons:- Limited information on bloom size and flowering period
- No details on fragrance intensity or exact blooming season
Best for: Gardeners wanting a healthy, fast-establishing climbing rose with minimal fuss and ready for immediate planting.
Not ideal for: Those seeking detailed bloom size and specific flowering windows, or more fragrance, as this rose emphasizes growth vigor over detailed flowering traits.
- Plant Type:Climbing Rose
- Color:Pink
- Size:2 Quart Pot
- Fragrance:Moderate
- Grown In:Specialized soil mix
- Additional:Includes cotton rose bag
Our verdict“Ideal for gardeners wanting a vigorous, ready-to-plant climbing rose that quickly fills space, with less emphasis on detailed bloom traits.”
Heirloom Climbing Roses – Eden Climber – Live Own Root Plant for Outdoor Garden
The Eden Climber offers repeated blooms throughout the season and a gentle fragrance, making it well-suited for gardeners who prefer a less intense scent but want ongoing color. Compared with Polka®, Eden Climber’s flowers are less fragrant, yet its reliable repeat blooming and hardy nature in zones 5-10 make it a dependable choice. This plant arrives in a 1-gallon container, about 12-16 months old, but may arrive partially defoliated, requiring patience for full recovery. Its smaller size at arrival means it might take a season to reach full height, but its consistent rebloom makes it a worthwhile investment.
Pros:- Repeats blooming throughout the season
- Lightly fragrant, suitable for scent-sensitive gardens
- Reliable in zones 5-10 for cold tolerance
Cons:- May arrive partially defoliated, delaying appearance
- Smaller at shipping, requiring time to mature
Best for: Gardeners seeking a lightly fragrant, repeat-blooming climbing rose with reliable performance in cooler zones.
Not ideal for: Those who desire highly fragrant blooms or immediate full-height coverage, as it requires time to mature and has a lighter scent profile.
- Type:Climbing Rose
- Variety:Eden Climber
- Root Type:Own Root
- Hardiness Zones:5-10
- Size at Maturity:10 ft x 6 ft
- Container Size:1 gallon
Our verdict“This rose is perfect for gardeners who want consistent, repeat blooms with a gentle scent, and are willing to wait for full maturity.”
Heirloom Climbing Roses Arborose Florentina – Live Own Root Plant for Outdoor Garden
The Arborose Florentina is a reliably blooming, moderate-fragrance climbing rose that reaches about 7 feet tall, making it suitable for smaller spaces or garden borders. Compared to Eden Climber, it offers a slightly shorter stature but emphasizes continuous flowering from spring to fall. Its own root foundation promotes strong growth, but it may arrive partially defoliated, and its size at shipping is smaller than its mature form, requiring patience. This variety is well-suited for zones 5-10 and full sun exposure, which encourages healthy, abundant blooms.
Pros:- Blooms continuously throughout the season
- Moderate fragrance appeals to scent-sensitive gardeners
- Healthy, lush growth in zones 5-10
Cons:- Arrival may be partially defoliated, delaying full display
- Smaller at shipping, requiring time to reach full height
Best for: Gardening enthusiasts wanting a moderately fragrant, consistently blooming climber for medium-sized spaces.
Not ideal for: Those seeking highly fragrant or very tall climbers, or gardeners with limited full sun exposure, as it prefers full sun for best performance.
- Hardiness Zones:5-10
- Expected Height:7 feet
- Planting Period:Spring to Fall
- Sunlight:Full Sun
- Soil Type:Sandy Soil
- Container Size:1 gallon
Our verdict“This rose is ideal for gardeners wanting steady blooms with moderate fragrance in medium-sized spaces and full sun.”
Peggy Martin Climbing Rose – Live Plant (1 Quart)
The Peggy Martin Climbing Rose excels in producing abundant pink blooms over an extended period, making it an excellent choice for large trellises and walls. Its vigorous growth and low thorn characteristic simplify maintenance and support full coverage. Compared with the more refined Polka®, Peggy Martin emphasizes tall, rapid growth and ease of care, though it requires full sun to partial shade for optimal performance. Its height potential of 10-15 feet makes it suitable for creating dramatic garden features but may require staking or support to manage its tall, sprawling habit.
Pros:- Produces abundant, showy pink blooms over an extended period
- Low thorniness simplifies maintenance
- Very vigorous growth perfect for tall coverage
Cons:- Requires full sun for best results
- Tall height may need support or staking
Best for: Gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, tall-growing climbing rose with abundant blooms and minimal thorns.
Not ideal for: Small gardens or those seeking a highly fragrant or compact climber, as it is large and less fragrant.
- Mature Height:10-15 Feet
- Mature Width:12-15 Feet
- Exposure:Full Sun to partial shade
- Hardiness Zones:4-9
- Expected Blooming Period:Spring to Summer
- Item Weight:2 Pounds
Our verdict“This rose makes a strong statement for gardeners wanting large, pink blooms with easy maintenance and vigorous growth in bigger spaces.”
Peggy Martin Climbing Rose – 12-16″ Tall Live Plant in Gallon Pot
The Peggy Martin Climbing Rose stands out for its remarkable resilience, having survived Hurricane Katrina, which makes it an excellent choice for gardeners in zones 6-10 seeking a hardy, low-maintenance vine. Unlike the Heirloom Climbing Roses that may require more careful handling, Peggy Martin offers a thornless experience, making pruning and handling safer and easier. Its vigorous growth and large, vibrant coral-pink blooms from spring through fall provide consistent visual impact. However, its tall growth habit of up to 20 feet necessitates sturdy support structures like trellises or arbors, and it demands full sun for best flowering. While it thrives in heat and humidity, it may require periodic pruning to manage height and vigor. This pick makes the most sense for gardeners wanting a resilient, fast-growing climber that can withstand extreme weather without extensive care.
Pros:- Thornless, simplifying handling and pruning
- Produces abundant, large clusters of vibrant pink flowers
- Highly resilient, surviving extreme weather conditions like hurricanes
- Fast-growing and low-maintenance
Cons:- Requires support structures such as trellises or arbors
- Needs full sun to achieve optimal flowering
- Can grow quite tall, necessitating regular pruning to control height
Best for: Gardeners in zones 6-10 seeking a hardy, low-maintenance climbing rose that can survive challenging weather conditions.
Not ideal for: Small gardens or those with limited space, as this rose can grow quite tall and needs strong support structures.
- Height:12-16 inches
- Pot Size:Gallon
- Flower Color:Pink
- Growth Habit:Climbing vine/shrub
- Thorns:Thornless
- Zones:6-10
- Growth Height:15-20 feet
Our verdict“This rose is ideal for gardeners in challenging climates who want a resilient, vigorous climbing rose that demands minimal care and offers stunning blooms.”
How We Picked
I evaluated each climbing rose plant based on several key factors that matter most to gardeners. Performance metrics included bloom size, color vibrancy, and fragrance, while usability aspects covered growth rate, disease resistance, and ease of maintenance. Build quality and health of the plants at purchase were also considered, along with their adaptability to different hardiness zones. The ranking reflects a balance of value, reliability, and overall aesthetic appeal, ensuring that both novice and experienced gardeners find suitable options. Plants that offered unique benefits or addressed common challenges were prioritized to provide a well-rounded selection.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Climbing Rose Plants
Choosing the best climbing rose involves more than just picking a pretty flower. Several factors influence how well a rose will perform in your specific garden conditions and how much effort you’ll need to keep it thriving. Understanding these considerations can help you avoid common pitfalls and select a variety that aligns with your goals and environment.Climate and Hardiness Zones
Different climbing roses thrive in different climates. Always check the hardiness zone compatibility of a plant before purchasing. Some varieties, like the Heirloom Climbing Roses, perform well in zones 5-10, offering flexibility for many gardeners, while others may require protected locations or special care in colder zones. Matching a rose’s hardiness to your local climate can significantly influence its success and longevity.
Bloom Characteristics and Fragrance
Consider what type of blooms you prefer—large and showy, fragrant, or uniquely colored. While some roses like the Cecille Brunner are celebrated for their sweet scent, others like Eden Rose focus on lush, abundant blooms. Decide whether fragrance or visual impact matters most to you, as some varieties excel in one area but may lack in the other. Keep in mind that highly fragrant roses sometimes have a shorter bloom period or require more care.
Growth Habit and Size
Climbing roses vary from vigorous, sprawling vines to more controlled, shrub-like forms. Consider space constraints and whether you want a plant that can cover a trellis, wall, or arbors. Some options, like Peggy Martin, are more compact and better suited for smaller spaces, while others, such as Eden Climber, can create dramatic displays over large structures. Proper planning helps avoid overcrowding and ensures the plant fits your garden layout.
Maintenance and Disease Resistance
Some climbing roses require regular pruning and pest management, while others are more resilient. Own root plants, like the Heirloom series, often offer better disease resistance and faster establishment. Be aware that vigorous growers might need more frequent pruning to keep their shape and health. Choosing disease-resistant varieties can reduce effort and improve your success rate, especially if you’re new to rose gardening.
Price and Maturity
Price can reflect the maturity and bloom quality of a plant, but more expensive options aren’t always necessary for a successful garden. Younger plants are typically less costly but may take longer to reach full bloom. Mature plants often flower more quickly and display more impressive blooms right away. Balance your budget with your desire for instant impact versus long-term growth and health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best climbing rose for cold climates?
The Heirloom Climbing Roses, especially varieties like Polka® and Eden Climber, are known for their hardiness and ability to survive in colder zones like 5-10. These plants are grafted on hardy rootstocks, which improve resilience against cold and pests. If you live in a cold climate, selecting a variety specifically bred for winter survival is key to maintaining a healthy, flowering vine year after year.
Are own root climbing roses better than grafted ones?
Own root roses often establish faster and tend to be more resilient to certain diseases, making them appealing for many gardeners. They generally adapt well to a range of soils and conditions, but they might be more prone to short-term setbacks and can have a shorter lifespan compared to grafted plants. Grafted roses, on the other hand, tend to produce larger flowers and have a longer lifespan, though they may take longer to root initially.
How much space should I allocate for a climbing rose?
The space needed depends on the variety’s growth habit—some can reach 10-15 feet in height and spread, while others stay more compact. As a rule, allow at least 3-4 feet of clearance around the plant to accommodate growth and pruning. Planning for vertical support like trellises, arbors, or walls is essential to maximize the plant’s display potential and prevent overcrowding.
What maintenance does a climbing rose require?
Most climbing roses benefit from regular pruning to maintain shape, promote flowering, and prevent disease. Deadheading spent blooms extends the flowering period. Routine checks for pests and fungal issues, especially in humid climates, help keep the plant healthy. Choosing disease-resistant varieties can reduce the amount of ongoing care needed, making maintenance more manageable.
When is the best time to plant a climbing rose?
The ideal planting time is early spring or fall, depending on your climate. Spring planting allows the rose to establish roots before summer heat, while fall planting gives it time to settle into the soil before winter. Make sure to choose a location with full sun and good air circulation to encourage strong growth and abundant blooms.
Conclusion
For gardeners seeking a reliable, all-around performer, the Ma Cherie Roses – Eden Rose offers an impressive blend of beauty, fragrance, and disease resistance, making it the best overall choice. If you’re on a budget or prefer a plant that matures quickly with vibrant blooms, the Peggy Martin Climbing Rose provides excellent value. Beginners should lean toward varieties like the Heirloom series, which are known for their resilience and ease of care. For those with specific aesthetic goals, such as deep red or fragrant blooms, options like Don Juan Red or Cecille Brunner deliver striking visual and sensory appeal. Ultimately, your choice depends on your climate, space, and how much effort you’re willing to invest in maintenance.
