Choosing a Rambling Rose: Paul’s Himalayan Musk

Question from Deborah:
I live in S. CAlifnornia (SFV/ LA).  am building a backyard pergola. want a very large rambling rose to overarch….any suggestions
summer is very hot

Answer from Pat:
Many rambling roses take heat well as long as they get enough water and fertilizer can sink roots deep. The first rose that came to mind was Rosa Mme Alfred Carrière. It is lovely and fragrant also, but known as a noisette, not really a rambler. This rose has a reputation for doing well in California’s hot dry climate. A huge rose once called “the California Rose” was “La Belle Portuguese.” (Bell of Portugal) It used to cascade out of trees in the hot back country and never got sick. Just one huge bloom season and little care and it blooms about two months so gloriously it will knock your socks off. Fragrant besides. It will waft on the air. Yes, you can still get it and it would be terrific but needs a strong support. When I say huge I mean it!

You don’t mention what color you prefer and both the above are pink. I have always wanted to plant Paul’s Himalayan Musk. Here’s a description:

One of the best and most beautiful of the ramblers with long, trailing growth reaching up to 30ft. It bears dainty, sprays of pretty little blush-pink rosettes, each held on a thin stem. Once flowering, but produces blooms in abundance, making a magnificent display.
This rose is ideal for growing into a tree, for pergolas, or for covering buildings. Despite its vigour, Paul’s Himalayan Musk has a grace which endears it to gardeners. There is a wonderful, haunting fragrance.