Most rose gardeners accept thorns as part of the experience, arming themselves with gauntlet gloves and loppers for the less pleasant tasks of rose care. But did you know that roses technically don’t have thorns?
What we commonly call thorns are actually prickles—small, sharp outgrowths from the outer layer of the stem. Unlike true thorns, which are modified branches embedded deep within a plant’s structure, prickles are easily broken off and serve as a natural defense against predators.
Some roses like Antique and Goethe (pictures 1 and 2) have daunting thorns.
Thérèse Bugnet or Zéphirine Drouhin (pictures 3 and 4) are friendlier options. Thérèse Bugnet also produces colorful red stems in winter.
Thornless varieties are useful when roses are planted along walkways or other high-traffic areas. They are also a great idea for children’s gardens, elderly gardeners, or anyone who has let thorns get in the way of enjoying the world’s most popular flower.
Whether you prefer roses with fewer prickles or don’t mind a little extra protection, we have varieties to suit your needs.