Lady Banks Yellow

1824

12 to 20 feet

Lady Banks Yellow (Rosa banksiae 'Lutea') is a legendary and beloved spring-blooming climber known for its soft yellow, fully double flowers that arrive in a breathtaking flush each year. This species rose produces petite blooms approximately 1.25 inches in diameter, each with up to 40 delicate petals and a mild, sweet fragrance reminiscent of violets. These charming blooms appear in large clusters, creating a stunning visual impact as they spill over arbors, fences, and walls in a cheerful, golden cascade.

This rose is cherished not only for its vibrant color but also for its nearly thornless canes, making it an excellent choice for family gardens and high-traffic areas. It is an especially vigorous climber, typically reaching heights of 15 to 20 feet and spreading up to 8 feet wide when given room and support to grow. Lady Banks Yellow thrives in warm climates and is known for its drought tolerance and low-maintenance nature, making it an easy-care option for both experienced and novice gardeners alike.

It’s important to prune this rose only after flowering, as it blooms on old wood. While it puts on just one major bloom show per year, the sheer abundance of flowers and their long-lasting display make it well worth the wait. It is hardy in USDA Zones 6b through 10b, and performs beautifully in full sun.

A delightful piece of rose history, this rose has a famous white counterpart known as the “Shady Lady,” which holds the Guinness World Record as the world’s largest rose bush. Located in Tombstone, Arizona, and planted in 1885, that original Rosa banksiae now covers over 8,000 square feet. While Lady Banks Yellow offers a different hue, its performance is equally remarkable—vigorous, romantic, and undeniably striking.

For those who want a burst of color and a sense of timeless charm in their spring garden, Lady Banks Yellow offers sunshine in rose form.