Charles de Mills (Bizarre Triomphant), gallica/provins

This is certainly one of the most well known of all old roses, undoubtedly because it is one of the most strikingly beautiful. Some authorities feel that it may be ‘Bizarre Triomphant’ from about 1790, making it one of the earliest Gallicas, if this is true. The blooms are large and nearly flat, but lightly cupped at first with the petals tightly packed and radiating out from the center in an interesting way. The flowers are remarkable for their depth of hue and variability, usually containing several shades crimson and purple with tints of black and violet. They last very well and eventually reflex back. This is one of the taller Gallicas but the weight of the blooms cause the branches to arch down. It is easy to grow and vigorous, making a suckering thicket eventually, which can be easily controlled.