Regarding R. carolina f. plena;

In an article entitled "A Rediscovery of the Double Form of Rosa Carolina," this rose was reported in the American Rose Annual, Vol. 40, by Doris and Wilson Lynes in 1955. Their article reports it having been redsicovered on the Golly farm in Lee, NY. The site of that farm is perhaps 5 minutes away by bicycle. Fortunately, I have a specimen of this rose in the back yard. Hereabouts, the common name is simply "The Golly Rose" - after the family, and the road which also bears their name. It's growth is often described as dwarf. At about 5' tall, it's hardly dwarf in habit, although the flowers are quite small. It suckers like a fiend, and is completely sterile.

Provided there are no copyright issues, I can post the entire article from the ARA 1955 about this rose. I happen to have an original copy. Also, I suggest the name "Golly Rose" be added to the database as a common name. I have no idea how to go about this, however.

First full season in the ground, and for such a small plant, it's blooming profusely. I've noticed the scent to be highly variable. Many of the blooms have smelled like Duchesse de Montebello with a sort of subtle, sweet, candy-like overlay. Early this morning, however, the most recent bloom to open smells powerfully and unmistakably of anise. I'd have said so even if I hadn't been expecting it based on the description here - it's that obvious. Very interesting. A rose to serve with absinthe!

There is a reference to Isabella Skinner in American Rose Annual (1964) 165-166, which can be found at the following URL;

http://www.bulbnrose.org/Roses/breeding/Skinner/skinner_bit.html