Alaska

Full Description:

A rose breeder is part gardener, part artist and part patient observer. Years may pass between the first idea and the moment a new rose is finally ready to enter our gardens. Alaska is the result of that devotion: a white climber created to unite romantic flowers with the strength required for modern garden life.

Introduced by W. Kordes’ Söhne in Germany in 2014, Alaska produces very double, pure-white flowers in generous succession. Each bloom measures approximately 8–10 cm and may contain up to around 80 softly arranged petals, creating a full, graceful appearance against the green foliage.

Its moderate growth makes Alaska easier to accommodate than many larger climbing roses. Reaching approximately 2 metres, it is well suited to arches, trellises, fences, pillars and smaller walls where a vigorous four-metre climber could become difficult to control.

The flowers return in repeated flushes throughout the growing season and carry a light fragrance. Their clean white colour brightens shaded-looking structures and combines naturally with almost every garden palette, from soft pastels to deep reds and purples.

Exceptional resistance to common rose diseases is one of Alaska’s defining strengths. Its healthy foliage and dependable flowering make it a reassuring choice for gardeners who want romantic climbing flowers without unnecessarily demanding maintenance.

Trained over a support, Alaska creates the impression of fresh white flowers rising through the garden like snow against summer greenery—a calm and luminous display that returns year after year.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Are Alaska’s flowers pure white?
Yes. Alaska produces very double flowers in a clean, pure-white shade. Their colour creates a fresh contrast with the green foliage and works easily within almost any planting scheme.

Does Alaska flower repeatedly?
Yes. It produces repeated flushes throughout the growing season rather than flowering only once. Removing faded blooms helps keep the plant tidy and encourages further flowering.

How large are the flowers?
The flowers generally measure approximately 8–10 cm and may contain up to around 80 petals, giving them a very full appearance.

Is Alaska fragrant?
It has a light fragrance. This variety is primarily selected for its abundant white flowers, healthy foliage and dependable garden performance.

How tall does Alaska grow?
It reaches approximately 2 metres, making it a moderately sized climber that is easier to manage than varieties growing three or four metres tall.

Is Alaska suitable for a smaller garden?
Yes. Its moderate growth allows it to cover a compact arch, trellis, pillar or narrow section of fence without overwhelming the available space.

Does Alaska need a climbing support?
Yes. Climbing roses do not attach themselves naturally, so the stems should be tied to a sturdy arch, trellis, fence, pillar or wall support.

How should I train the stems?
Guide the main stems horizontally or diagonally whenever the support allows. This encourages flowering shoots to develop along a greater length of each cane and creates a fuller display.

Is Alaska resistant to disease?
Yes. Exceptional foliage health is one of its principal qualities. Full sun, good air circulation and watering at soil level will further support clean, healthy growth.

Where should I plant Alaska?
Choose a sunny position with fertile, well-drained soil and a permanent support. Its white flowers are particularly effective against brick, natural stone, dark timber or evergreen foliage.

Can Alaska be grown in a container?
Yes, provided the container is large and deep, has excellent drainage and includes a strong permanent support. Container-grown climbing roses require consistent watering and regular feeding.

Is Alaska suitable for beginners?
Yes. Its moderate growth, repeat flowering and excellent disease resistance make it a reassuring climbing rose for gardeners with different levels of experience.

How far apart should Alaska roses be planted?
Allow approximately 1–1.5 metres between plants, depending on the width of the structure and how quickly you want the coverage to become dense.

Which plants combine well with Alaska?
Blue clematis, lavender, nepeta, salvia and pale pink roses create soft combinations. Deep burgundy foliage or red roses provide a more dramatic contrast.

What makes Alaska different from other white climbers?
It combines richly filled pure-white flowers with moderate growth, repeated flowering and exceptional resistance to common rose diseases.

What does the rose look like on delivery?
Its appearance depends on the delivery season and natural stage of growth. For examples and explanations, see What roses look like on delivery →.

What should I do after planting?
Plant it beside a sturdy support, water thoroughly and begin guiding the developing stems as they grow. For detailed instructions, visit our complete planting guide →.