There’s something undeniably magical about the scent of a rose. For centuries, this timeless flower has symbolized love, passion, and elegance—not just through its stunning blooms, but through its intoxicating fragrance. Whether you’re a home gardener, a professional flower designer, or a local florist seeking standout blooms for your arrangements, fragrant roses bring unmatched charm and sensory delight.
While many modern rose varieties have been bred for longevity and disease resistance, some have sacrificed scent in the process. Fortunately, there are still exceptional scented rose varieties that thrive in gardens and floral designs alike. With the convenience of flower delivery services, even the most luxurious varieties can be enjoyed no matter where you live. Here are some of the top-scented roses to consider for your garden—or to request from your favorite florist.
1. Damask Roses (Rosa × damascena)
Known as one of the oldest and most fragrant rose types, Damask roses are prized for their strong, sweet scent. Traditionally used in the production of rose oil and perfumes, these heritage roses are a favorite among flower designers and gardeners alike. Their lush, double-petaled blooms are ideal for creating romantic arrangements or simply enjoying in your backyard.
2. Mister Lincoln
This hybrid tea rose is beloved for its deep red petals and intense, classic rose scent. As a florist favorite for elegant arrangements, Mister Lincoln adds a rich, velvety aroma to any bouquet. It’s also a resilient grower, making it a top choice for home gardens where fragrance is a priority.
3. Gertrude Jekyll (David Austin Rose)
Flower designers adore David Austin roses for their old-world charm and heady scent. Among them, ‘Gertrude Jekyll’ stands out with its strong, quintessential rose fragrance. This pink beauty is a repeat bloomer and works wonderfully both in garden borders and in fresh flower delivery arrangements.
4. Double Delight
As the name suggests, this rose offers more than one treat. With creamy petals edged in vibrant red and a rich, spicy fragrance, Double Delight is both visually striking and powerfully scented. A perfect addition to mixed bouquets, it’s also a hit with florists who appreciate bold color and scent combinations.
5. Madame Isaac Pereire
One of the most fragrant Bourbon roses, this variety exudes a powerful raspberry-rose perfume. Flower designers often turn to Madame Isaac Pereire for vintage-themed or heirloom-style arrangements. Its large, cupped blooms and repeat-flowering habit make it a treasure for scent-loving gardeners.
Fragrance in Floral Design
For a professional florist or flower designer, scent is an essential element of a memorable bouquet. Whether for weddings, anniversaries, or heartfelt flower delivery gifts, incorporating fragrant roses adds a personal, emotive layer to every arrangement. Customers often respond emotionally to scent, making fragrant roses a powerful storytelling tool in floral design.
Bringing Fragrance Home
Thanks to modern flower delivery services, you don’t have to grow these roses yourself to enjoy their aroma. Many premium florists offer arrangements that include these scented varieties, giving you the chance to experience garden-fresh fragrance year-round.
From garden beds to tabletop vases, fragrant roses continue to enchant. For beauty you can both see and smell, choose roses that make scent a top priority.
Click here to read about Understanding Succulent Propagation: How to Grow Your Collection Easily.