19 Types Of Roses That’ll Add Colour And Charm To Any Space
There’s just something timeless about roses. Whether you’re gifting them to someone special or arranging a centrepiece for your home, these classic blooms always make an impression. But did you know there’s more to roses than just red ones on Valentine’s Day? In fact, there are hundreds of different types of roses, each with its own personality, charm, and purpose.
In this guide, we’re exploring 19 popular rose types—from the ones you know and love to those you might never have heard of. Whether you’re picking flowers for a romantic gesture or simply curious about rose varieties, this list will open your eyes to the wonderful world of roses. So, let’s explore these stunning rose types together.
1. Hybrid Tea Roses
When most people picture a rose, this is what comes to mind. Hybrid tea roses are the epitome of elegance. Each stem typically bears a single, high-centred bloom made up of 30–50 petals. These roses are often long-stemmed, making them perfect for cutting and displaying in tall vases or floral bouquets.
They come in nearly every colour imaginable, from classic reds to rare lilacs and even bicolours. Although stunning, they do require regular care and pruning to keep them blooming beautifully throughout the season.
2. Floribunda Roses
Floribunda roses are the social butterflies of the rose world. Unlike hybrid teas that showcase a single bloom per stem, floribundas produce clusters of smaller flowers, offering a burst of colour and texture. These rose types are ideal for borders and flower beds because they bloom generously and repeatedly.
They’re slightly hardier than hybrid teas and come in playful shades like coral, orange, gold, and even striped varieties. Their neat, bushy shape also makes them great for small gardens or balcony pots.
3. Grandiflora Roses
Grandiflora roses blend the best of hybrid teas and floribundas. They feature large, elegant blooms like hybrid teas but grow in clusters like floribundas. Grandifloras tend to be taller, often reaching 5 to 6 feet, so they make a real impact in the garden or as a vertical focal point.
The flowers come in shades ranging from pure white to deep crimson, and many varieties offer a gentle, classic rose fragrance. They’re ideal for those who want tall, stately bushes without sacrificing bloom quantity.
4. Climbing Roses
If you're looking to create a romantic walkway, arch, or trellis display, climbing roses are the way to go. These aren't a specific breed but rather a group of rose varieties with long, flexible canes that can be trained to grow up and around structures.
Some climbing roses bloom just once in spring, while others (known as repeat bloomers) flower throughout the year. Look out for types like ‘Eden’, ‘Cecile Brunner’, and ‘Iceberg’ for stunning vertical displays. Their height and versatility make them popular in landscape designs.
5. Shrub Roses
Shrub roses are the sturdy all-arounders among different types of roses. They grow thick and bushy, often spreading out to cover a wide area—perfect for hedges or large garden beds. Most varieties are disease-resistant and require less fuss than their more delicate cousins.
Shrub roses include English roses as well as modern hybrids, and they’re known for their abundant blooms and pleasing scents. They can grow anywhere from 3 to 8 feet tall, depending on the variety, and are perfect for gardeners who want a mix of beauty and durability.
6. Miniature Roses
These tiny wonders are full-sized roses in miniature form. Don’t be fooled by their size, miniature roses boast intricate petal structures and vivid colours. They're usually 6 inches to 2 feet tall and come in single or clustered blooms. Because of their compact size, they’re often grown in pots, window boxes, or even as indoor plants on sunny windowsills.
Despite their delicate look, they're quite hardy and can bloom repeatedly if properly cared for. They make great gifts, especially for small-space dwellers.
7. Polyantha Roses
Polyantha roses are known for their compact size and profuse blooming habits. Developed in the late 19th century, these plants typically grow into rounded bushes about 2 to 3 feet tall. They produce large clusters of small, delicate flowers that often appear in shades of white, pink, or red.
These types of roses are extremely resilient and resistant to disease, which makes them ideal for beginners or for areas where low-maintenance plants are needed. They work well as borders, in mass plantings, or even in patio pots.
8. English Roses (David Austin Roses)
Developed by British breeder David Austin, English roses are some of the most beloved garden roses in the world. They combine the cup-shaped blooms and rich scent of old garden roses with the repeat flowering of modern hybrids. These rose types typically have full, layered petals and a strong, fruity or myrrh-like fragrance.
They’re excellent for cottage-style gardens and informal landscapes. Colours range from soft apricots and creamy yellows to rich purples and romantic pinks. Some favourites include ‘Gertrude Jekyll’ and ‘Golden Celebration’.
9. Moss Roses
Moss roses are a unique and historic variety, named for the moss-like growth found on their sepals and stems. This “moss” isn’t actually moss—it’s a type of glandular trichome that gives off a pleasant piney fragrance when touched.
They bloom in shades of pink, red, and white and tend to have a strong, sweet scent. Moss roses date back to the 17th century and typically bloom once per season. Their antique look and texture make them favourites among heritage rose collectors and romantic garden designers.
10. China Roses
These roses are a cornerstone in the development of modern rose breeding. Originating in East Asia, particularly China, they were introduced to Europe in the 18th century and brought with them the remarkable ability to bloom repeatedly.
China roses are usually bushy and slightly more delicate, with small to medium blooms in reds, pinks, or even blends. They have a graceful, arching growth habit and a light, tea-like scent. Because they thrive in warm climates and bloom often, they’re perfect for subtropical gardens like those in Singapore.
11. Bourbon Roses
Bourbon roses are the sweethearts of heritage rose gardens. Originating in the early 1800s on Île Bourbon (now Réunion Island), they were a natural cross between China roses and Damask roses. This lineage gives them both the romantic scent of old-world roses and the repeat-blooming ability of modern ones.
Their blooms are typically large, full, and cupped—usually in pinks, reds, and sometimes whites. These roses are excellent for borders or as standalone shrubs, growing 3 to 6 feet tall. They also tolerate partial shade, which is a bonus for less sunny gardens.
12. Noisette Roses
Noisette roses are one of the first climbing types of roses developed in the United States during the early 1800s. Known for their graceful clusters of small, fragrant flowers, they offer a soft and romantic look perfect for arches and pergolas.
The blooms usually come in pastel shades like peach, blush pink, and cream. Many Noisettes are repeat bloomers and prefer warmer climates, making them suitable for tropical regions. Their delicate beauty and sweet scent make them a charming choice for floral enthusiasts who want something a little different.
13. Damask Roses
Damask roses are legendary, not just for their appearance but also for their powerful fragrance. Cultivated for centuries and often used in perfumes, oils, and rose water, this variety is considered one of the oldest in the world.
Their blooms can be single or double and usually appear in shades of soft pink or deep rose. While some types bloom once in summer (known as Summer Damasks), others, like Autumn Damasks, flower a second time in the year. Though not as disease-resistant as modern hybrids, their historic allure and scent make them truly special.
14. Gallica Roses
Gallica roses are the true old souls of the rose world—some varieties even date back to Roman times. These different types of roses are known for their compact growth and velvety, richly coloured blooms, usually in purples, deep reds, and magentas.
The petals often have a ruffled look and carry a light fragrance. Gallicas bloom only once per season, typically in early summer, but they put on an unforgettable show when they do. These roses are very hardy and well-suited for cooler climates and formal gardens.
15. Rugosa Roses
If you're after rugged reliability, rugosa roses are your go-to. Native to coastal areas of Asia, they’re incredibly tolerant of poor soil, salty air, and cold weather. Their leaves are distinctly wrinkled (or rugose), which adds texture to any planting area.
These rose types typically produce large, brightly coloured single or semi-double blooms in pink, white, or purple, followed by large, decorative rose hips in the autumn. Their strong fragrance and resistance to pests make them a fantastic low-maintenance choice for both new and seasoned gardeners.
16. Wild Roses (Species Roses)
Wild roses, also known as species roses, are the original ancestors of all cultivated roses. These grow naturally in the wild and are generally simple in form, with five-petaled, single-layer blooms. Most wild roses are pink or white and bloom once a year in spring or early summer.
They’re not bred for showy flowers or prolonged bloom cycles, but their natural beauty and resilience make them an important part of rose biodiversity. Wild roses are perfect for nature gardens and wildlife habitats, as they attract birds, bees, and pollinators.
17. Groundcover Roses
Also known as carpet roses, these are the low-maintenance wonders of modern landscaping. They grow wide rather than tall, spreading across the ground with thick foliage and abundant small blooms. These roses are bred to be hardy, disease-resistant, and bloom continuously from spring to frost.
They’re perfect for sloped areas, borders, or filling in large garden beds. Popular colours include red, pink, yellow, and white. With minimal pruning and watering needs, groundcover roses are ideal for those who want a beautiful garden without all the effort.
18. Rambling Roses
Rambling roses are often confused with climbing roses, but they’re even more vigorous. These fast-growing roses produce long, flexible canes that can stretch up to 20 feet or more—ideal for covering walls, fences, or even large trees.
Ramblers bloom once a year, typically in late spring or early summer, but when they do, the display is breathtaking. Their blooms are small but appear in massive clusters, usually in pastel pinks, whites, and soft yellows. Many older varieties have a light fragrance and old-world charm, making them perfect for romantic, wild-style gardens.
19. Tea Roses (Old Garden Roses)
Not to be confused with modern hybrid teas, true tea roses are a class of old garden roses that were first bred in China and later popularised in Europe. They earned their name because their scent was said to resemble freshly brewed tea leaves.
These roses have pointed buds and loosely double blooms that appear in warm tones like apricot, cream, and blush. They tend to be tender and are best suited for warmer climates. Their relaxed form and elegant presence make them a timeless addition to cottage gardens and vintage-style floral arrangements.
Conclusion About The Different Types Of Roses
There’s a reason roses have remained the world’s favourite flower—they speak a language words sometimes can’t. From the classic red Hybrid Tea to the whimsical English rose or the carefree groundcover variety, each bloom carries its own kind of magic. And now that you know 19 stunning types of roses, imagine how much more meaningful your next bouquet can be.
Whether you're expressing love, offering comfort, or simply brightening someone’s day, there's a perfect rose waiting to be picked.
At Singapore Florist, one of the best florists in Singapore, we bring you the freshest, most beautiful rose types, thoughtfully arranged to suit any moment.
Explore our rose collection today and turn everyday gestures into unforgettable memories.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Different Types Of Roses
What Are The Most Popular Types Of Roses?
Some of the most well-loved rose varieties include hybrid tea, floribunda, and English roses, prized for their stunning appearance and reliable blooms.
How Do I Care For Different Types Of Roses?
Most roses thrive in full sun with well-drained soil and regular watering. Pruning helps promote healthy growth and more frequent flowering.
Can I Grow Multiple Types Of Roses In One Garden?
Yes, combining different types of roses can create a rich, layered look. Just ensure they share similar sun and soil preferences for best results.
Are All Types Of Roses Fragrant?
No, not all roses have a strong scent. Traditional varieties like damask and bourbon roses are typically more fragrant than some modern hybrids.
Which Types Of Roses Bloom More Than Once A Year?
Roses like floribunda, China roses, and English roses are known for repeat blooming, offering colour multiple times throughout the season.
What Is The Difference Between Climbing And Rambling Roses?
Climbing roses bloom more frequently and have stiffer stems, while rambling roses grow faster, have flexible canes, and often bloom once in large clusters.
