From vibrant blooms to classic fragrance and timeless charm, rose plants are a staple in gardens across the world. But not all roses are created equal—some are carefree and low-maintenance, while others climb, bloom continuously, or make perfect patio trees.
In this guide, we’re breaking down some of the most popular types of rose plants to help you choose the right variety for your garden. Whether you’re looking for a compact shrub, a stunning tree-form rose, or a fast-growing climber, there’s a rose for every space and every skill level.
Double Knock Out® Roses
Double Knock Out® Roses are some of the most resilient and low-maintenance roses available. They’re prized for their double blooms—which means you get even more flower power than standard Knock Outs—and they bloom repeatedly from spring until frost.
Why gardeners love them:
- Disease-resistant (especially against black spot and powdery mildew)
- Drought-tolerant once established
- No deadheading required
- Ideal for sunny spots with 6+ hours of sunlight
- Hardy in USDA Zones 5–11
These are perfect for borders, landscape massing, or containers, and they make a gorgeous, consistent bloomer with very little fuss.
Knock Out® Roses (Sunny & White Varieties)
The Sunny Knock Out® Rose is a yellow-flowering beauty that grows in a tree form—offering a cheerful pop of color in a patio container or as a landscape focal point. It features a soft citrus fragrance and vibrant yellow blooms that fade to creamy white as they mature.
The White Knock Out® Rose Shrub adds a clean, classic look to your garden with pure white single blooms and glossy dark green foliage. It’s compact, easygoing, and blooms continuously from spring through frost.
Shop the Sunny Knock Out® Rose Tree
Shop the White Knock Out® Rose Shrub
Quick Facts:
- Blooms from spring to frost
- Naturally rounded, compact forms
- Heat and humidity tolerant
- Disease resistant and self-cleaning
- Perfect for beds, foundations, containers, and walkways
Like all Knock Outs®, these roses are exceptionally easy to care for and require minimal pruning—making them a favorite for both new and seasoned gardeners.
Drift® Roses
Drift® Roses are a cross between full-size groundcover roses and miniatures—making them ideal for small gardens, borders, and containers. Despite their petite size, they offer a drift of color all season long.
Features of Drift® Roses:
- Compact, mounding habit (about 1.5–2 ft tall and wide)
- Continuous blooms from spring through fall
- Great for erosion control on slopes
- Low maintenance and cold hardy
They’re especially popular in cottage-style gardens or as an alternative to traditional annual bedding plants.
Iceberg Roses
Iceberg Roses are beloved for their pure white blooms, sweet fragrance, and ability to bloom in flushes throughout the growing season. The tree form adds elegance to patios, entryways, and formal garden beds.
Why choose Iceberg Roses?
- One of the longest-blooming white rose varieties
- Mild fragrance with a classic rose scent
- Ideal in Zones 5–9
- Easy-care and mildew resistant
These roses add a timeless look to any space and blend beautifully with almost any garden color palette.
Lady Banks Climbing Roses
For large trellises, fences, pergolas, or garden arches, Lady Banks Roses are a must-have. Unlike most climbing roses, they are nearly thornless, which makes them a safer option for high-traffic areas.
Key Benefits:
- Fast-growing and vigorous climber
- Early spring bloomers with clusters of small, fragrant flowers
- Disease resistant and drought tolerant
- Hardy in Zones 6–10
Lady Banks are ideal for gardeners who want quick coverage with minimal maintenance—and stunning results.
How to Choose the Right Rose for Your Space
Not sure which type to plant? Here’s a quick guide based on your garden goals:
Want color all season with no headaches?
Go with Knock Out® or Double Knock Out® Roses—they’re as low-maintenance as roses get.
Need a compact option for containers or borders?
Drift® Roses are the perfect small-space solution.
Love the classic white rose look?
Iceberg Roses offer timeless beauty and exceptional bloom power.
Planning to cover a fence, trellis, or arbor?
Lady Banks Roses are vigorous climbers with a soft, romantic vibe.
Final Thoughts
Roses have a reputation for being finicky—but that’s old news. Today’s modern rose varieties are tougher, easier, and more rewarding than ever. Whether you’re new to gardening or a seasoned green thumb, there’s a rose plant that fits your style and space.
At Simply Trees, we offer container-grown roses delivered directly to your door—ready to plant and thrive in your landscape.
Explore all our rose varieties here:
Still not sure what to choose? Reach out anytime—we’re happy to help you find your perfect rose.
