Rosa gallica var. officinalis (apothecary rose)

Apothecary Rose (Rosa gallica var. officinalis) is a historic and highly aromatic flowering shrub treasured for its deep pink blooms, medicinal heritage, and intense fragrance. One of the oldest cultivated roses, it has been grown for centuries for herbal medicine, perfumery, and dried floral use.

This variety produces abundant large, semi-double pink flowers measuring 3–4 inches across, blooming heavily in season. Both the petals and buds dry beautifully and are widely used in potpourri, sachets, herbal preparations, and traditional apothecary work.

Apothecary Rose spreads gradually by underground shoots, making it well suited for naturalized plantings, medicinal gardens, and low hedges. Growth is easily managed with routine pruning. As with traditional roses, plants feature small thorns throughout.

Exceptionally hardy and resilient, Rosa gallica thrives across a wide climate range and remains one of the most reliable and historically significant roses available today.

• Historic medicinal rose with centuries of apothecary use
• Large, fragrant pink semi-double blooms
• Ideal for drying, potpourri, and herbal preparations
• Hardy, low-maintenance flowering shrub
• Excellent for hedges and naturalized gardens

Plant Details

• Botanical name: Rosa gallica
• Common name: Apothecary Rose
• Plant type: Evergreen to deciduous shrub
• Mature size: 3 ft. tall × 3 ft. wide
• Flower color: Rich pink
• Bloom form: Semi-double
• Fragrance: Strong
• USDA Zones: 4–9
• Sun exposure: Full sun to partial shade

Best Uses

• Medicinal and herbal gardens
• Perfumery and fragrance production
• Drying, potpourri, and sachets
• Hedges and landscape plantings
• Pollinator-friendly gardens

These are shipped in 2 3/8" x 5" Anderson band pots.