Differences Between Hamilton and Queen of Sweden Roses

Both Hamilton and Queen of Sweden roses are popular climbing rose varieties bred by David Austin, known for their charming pink blooms. Many novice gardeners often struggle to distinguish between these two beautiful roses. In this article, we will provide a detailed comparison to help you understand the differences between Hamilton and Queen of Sweden roses.

Overview

Hamilton Rose

The Hamilton rose, also known as Geoff Hamilton, is a climbing rose variety with a unique blend of pink and white petals. Its distinctive fragrance and repeat blooming habit make it a favorite among rose enthusiasts.

Queen of Sweden Rose

The Queen of Sweden rose is another climbing variety that features delicate pale pink blooms. Known for its graceful appearance and sturdy growth, this rose is versatile and can be grown as either a climber or a bush.

Key Differences

1. Flower Color

• Hamilton Rose: The Hamilton rose has blooms that are pink in the center with white outer petals. This two-toned appearance creates a striking contrast that adds visual interest to any garden.
• Queen of Sweden Rose: The Queen of Sweden rose features a uniform pale pink color throughout its blooms. As the flowers mature, their color fades to an almost white shade, giving a softer and more subtle look.

2. Flower Shape and Size

• Hamilton Rose: The Hamilton rose has a distinctive bun-like shape with tightly packed petals. The flowers are relatively small, measuring around 6 cm in diameter.
• Queen of Sweden Rose: The Queen of Sweden rose has a shallow cup shape with more open and loosely arranged petals. The blooms are larger, typically reaching about 8 cm in diameter.

3. Fragrance

• Hamilton Rose: The Hamilton rose is known for its strong, old rose fragrance. This rich scent can fill a garden with its delightful aroma, making it a favorite for those who love fragrant roses.
• Queen of Sweden Rose: In contrast, the Queen of Sweden rose is nearly scentless. While it lacks a strong fragrance, its beauty compensates for this, making it ideal for gardeners who prefer roses without a strong scent.

4. Blooming Season

• Hamilton Rose: The Hamilton rose is a repeat bloomer, producing flowers multiple times throughout the growing season. Additionally, it often blooms in clusters, providing a more abundant floral display.
• Queen of Sweden Rose: The Queen of Sweden rose primarily blooms in the spring with a more concentrated display of flowers. It typically produces one main flush of blooms, making its flowering period shorter but intense.

5. Growth Habit

• Hamilton Rose: Hamilton roses have relatively soft and flexible canes, making them less suitable for bush planting. They are ideal for training along supports as climbing roses.
• Queen of Sweden Rose: The Queen of Sweden rose features sturdier and thicker canes. This robust structure allows it to be grown either as a climbing rose or as a bush, providing versatility in garden design.

Conclusion

In summary, both Hamilton and Queen of Sweden roses are beautiful climbing varieties bred by David Austin, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different gardening preferences.

• Hamilton Rose: With its striking two-toned blooms, strong fragrance, and repeat blooming habit, the Hamilton rose is perfect for those who appreciate a classic rose scent and frequent blooms. Its softer canes make it ideal for climbing arrangements.

• Queen of Sweden Rose: Offering a delicate and uniform pale pink bloom, nearly scentless, and sturdy canes, the Queen of Sweden rose is versatile and suitable for both climbing and bush planting. Its elegant appearance and single, intense blooming period make it a great choice for a refined garden aesthetic.

By understanding these differences, you can make an informed decision on which rose variety best suits your garden and personal taste. Whether you prefer the robust fragrance and frequent blooms of the Hamilton or the subtle elegance and versatility of the Queen of Sweden, both roses will bring beauty and grace to your garden.