30 THE HISTORY AND CULTIVATION OF THE ROSE. 



The Noisette Roses used to be recognised by the large 

 clusters of buds they produced, but many of the Noisettes 

 recently introduced have wandered far from the original 

 in this respect ; some, indeed, more closely resemble in 

 habit, constitution, and flowers, the Tea Rose. In 1822 

 the Bourbon Rose was sent to France from the Mauritius, 

 and is generally supposed to have originated by the 

 accidental hybridisation of the Rosa Indica with some 

 other species. The first Bourbon Rose was of a rose 

 colour, and only semi-double. For a long time the varie- 

 ties raised from seed and referred to this group were all of 

 a similar shade ; but within the last three or four years 

 there have arisen many dark rich coloured varieties, and 

 some pink and blush ones, which have made a pleasing 

 variety, and the Bourbons now form a group of the first 

 order. The R. Microphylla, much valued on account of 

 its curious and distinct appearance, was brought from 

 China in 1828. The calyx is completely covered with 

 sharp prickles ; the buds presenting a most curious appear- 

 ance, not unlike that of a hedgehog when rolled up in 

 defence against its enemies. These Roses require a good 

 aspect, as they are not only susceptible of frost, but from 

 great fulness of petals the flowers do not always expand 

 well. The R. Rubifolia is of recent introduction, having 

 been brought from America in 1830. There are now 

 several varieties, apparently vigorous growers, well suited 

 for climbing or pillar Roses. I believe Beauty of the 

 Prairies to be the best. 



Besides the groups I have touched upon, we have 

 species natives of Britain, and the varieties which have 

 proceeded from these are of some interest to the amateur. 

 Among these are the Sweet Briar (R. rubiginosa) ; the 

 Ayrshire (R. arvensis) ; and the Scotch (R. spinosissima). 

 The other native species are of no interest in a floricultural 

 point of view. 



We have now arrived at the second part of our subject, 

 and shall proceed to make a few remarks on the formation 



