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Portland’s International Rose Test Garden – Fragrant Beauty

Published:

by Tawsha Thibodeau

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Have you ever wondered where you can find a garden filled with thousands of roses, each more beautiful than the last? Portland's International Rose Test Garden is the place to be. Located in the heart of Portland, this garden boasts over 10,000 rose bushes and 650 varieties. It's a paradise for flower lovers and a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the garden offers a unique experience with its vibrant colors and delightful scents. Plus, it’s free to visit! Ready to immerse yourself in a world of roses? Let’s explore what makes this garden so special.

Portland's International Rose Test Garden: A Fragrant Wonderland

Portland's International Rose Test Garden is a must-visit for flower lovers. With over 10,000 rose bushes, this garden offers a sensory overload of colors and scents. Let's explore some of the most captivating spots within this floral paradise.

Shakespeare Garden

The Shakespeare Garden is a tribute to the famous playwright. It features roses named after characters from his plays. This section is perfect for literature enthusiasts and romantics alike.

  1. Ophelia Rose: Named after the tragic character from "Hamlet," this rose boasts delicate pink petals.
  2. Juliet Rose: Inspired by the heroine of "Romeo and Juliet," this rose has a soft, peachy hue.
  3. Othello Rose: With deep red blooms, this rose captures the intensity of Shakespeare's tragic hero.

Gold Medal Garden

The Gold Medal Garden showcases award-winning roses. These roses have been recognized for their beauty, fragrance, and resilience. It's a great spot to see the best of the best.

  1. Peace Rose: Known for its stunning blend of yellow and pink, this rose symbolizes harmony.
  2. Double Delight Rose: This rose features creamy white petals with red edges and a strong, sweet scent.
  3. Mister Lincoln Rose: A classic red rose with a powerful fragrance, perfect for traditionalists.

Miniature Rose Garden

For those who love tiny, delicate blooms, the Miniature Rose Garden is a must-see. These roses may be small, but they pack a punch in terms of color and fragrance.

  1. Baby Boomer Rose: A vibrant red miniature rose that blooms profusely.
  2. Cinderella Rose: This tiny rose has soft pink petals and a sweet scent.
  3. Fairy Rose: With clusters of small, pink blooms, this rose looks like it belongs in a fairy tale.

Royal Rosarian Garden

The Royal Rosarian Garden honors the Royal Rosarians, Portland's official greeters and ambassadors of goodwill. This section features roses named after past Prime Ministers of the Royal Rosarians.

  1. Queen Elizabeth Rose: A tall, pink rose that stands out for its elegance.
  2. Sir Francis Drake Rose: This rose has striking orange-red petals and a light fragrance.
  3. Lady Diana Rose: A beautiful white rose with a hint of pink, named after the beloved princess.

Fragrance Garden

The Fragrance Garden is designed to delight your sense of smell. Here, you'll find roses known for their strong and unique scents.

  1. Fragrant Cloud Rose: This rose has a rich, spicy fragrance and coral-red petals.
  2. Scentimental Rose: With red and white striped petals, this rose has a sweet, spicy scent.
  3. Honey Perfume Rose: A soft apricot-colored rose with a delightful honey-like fragrance.

Conclusion

Portland's International Rose Test Garden offers a variety of roses that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you're a fan of classic red roses or unique striped varieties, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Why You Should Visit Portland's International Rose Test Garden

Portland's International Rose Test Garden offers a unique experience. With over 10,000 rose bushes, the garden is a feast for the senses. The vibrant colors and fragrant blooms create a stunning backdrop for photos or a peaceful stroll. It's not just about the roses; the garden also provides panoramic views of the city and Mount Hood.

Visiting the garden is a great way to spend a day outdoors, whether you're a local or a tourist. The garden is free to enter, making it an affordable outing for families, couples, or solo travelers. Don't forget to check out the Shakespeare Garden and the Miniature Rose Garden while you're there.

Whether you're a gardening enthusiast or just looking for a beautiful place to relax, the International Rose Test Garden is a must-see in Portland.