Best Fragrant Roses for a Beautifully Scented Garden

We believe roses do more than look good—they engage all your senses. That beautiful bloom is only part of the story, the scent is what often stays with you long after the petals drop. Whether you’re taking a quiet stroll through your garden on a warm evening or bringing fresh blooms indoors, the fragrance of roses adds something extra.

Why Fragrance Matters in the Rose Garden

Historically, fragrance was one of the most valued qualities in roses, but over time breeders prioritised colour, bloom frequency and disease-resistance, and fragrance sometimes got sidelined. But it’s making a comeback, and now many gardeners are seeking out varieties that smell as good as they look.

Exploring Different Types of Fragrant Roses

We’ve have a selection of fragrant roses, each with its own character. From classic rose perfume to soft, fruity and tea-like scents.

Hybrid Tea Roses

Elegant and upright, hybrid teas are a go-to if you want a rose that performs beautifully for cutting and fills the home with scent. They often carry that classic “rose” smell—rich, recognisable, and full of presence. The Enchantress is a really striking rose with large superbly scented flowers

Fragrant Climbing Roses

Want height and drama? Climbing roses not only add vertical interest (walls, pergolas, archways) but their fragrance can intensify as the blooms age—ideal for creating a romantic nook or scented archway in the garden. A favourite is Little Rambler Rose, a pale pink rose with many petals and a strong, sweet fragrance.

Shrub Roses

These are the resilient, informal beauties. A shrub rose can sit comfortably in a mixed border or stand alone, offering scent without demanding fuss. Many carry gentle perfume reminiscent of wild roses, permeating the garden on a breeze. Buff Beauty is a great choice, with a beautiful soft-apricot colour, and Tea rose scent.

How to Plant and Care for Fragrant Roses

Growing fragrant roses is really rewarding, and with the right care your garden will be filled with both colour and scent year after year. Here are some straightforward tips to get you going:

Choose the right spot

Roses love the sun. Aim for at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to help both bloom and scent develop fully. Good drainage is also key—roses don’t like soggy feet.

Prepare the soil

Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. This gives the rose a strong start.

Water and feed

Consistent moisture is important, especially in dry spells. But avoid over-watering. Feed in spring and again in midsummer with a balanced fertilizer to keep flowers and fragrance at their best.

Prune at the right time

Late winter or early spring (before new growth begins) is the ideal moment. Remove dead or damaged wood, shape the plant, and promote new blooms. A well-pruned rose is a healthier, more fragrant rose.

The Joy of a Fragrant Rose Garden

There’s something magical about walking into a garden filled with the scent of roses. It invites you to slow down, take a deep breath, and simply enjoy the moment. A truly scented rose garden isn’t just about looks, it’s about creating a space that delights all the senses.

Whether you’re going for classic hybrid tea, elegant climber or natural shrub, there’s a fragrant rose waiting to turn your garden into that sensory haven. Let us help you find the perfect one, so your garden becomes a place where scent lingers and memories are made.