Harlekin (Kiss of Desire)

Full Description:

Harlekin enters the garden like a masked figure at a summer celebration. Its cream-white petals are traced with lively pink edges, creating an elegant play of light and colour that changes as the flowers open and mature.

Bred by Reimer Kordes and also known as Kiss of Desire, this climbing rose combines theatrical beauty with genuine romantic character. Its large double blooms measure approximately 8–10 cm, yet retain a delicate appearance against the glossy dark green foliage.

The fragrance adds another dimension to the display. Strong and charming, with the character of a wild rose, it makes Harlekin particularly rewarding when trained near an entrance, terrace, garden path or seating area.

Reaching approximately 2.5–3 metres, the sturdy plant can transform arches, pergolas, fences, trellises and sunny walls. It flowers repeatedly throughout the season, bringing back its distinctive bicolour display in successive flushes.

With good disease resistance, vigorous growth and flowers that seem individually painted, Harlekin offers more than vertical coverage. It gives the garden a sense of movement, romance and joyful surprise.

Frequently asked questions:

Why is this rose called Harlekin?
Its contrasting cream-white and pink colouring recalls the playful costumes and changing expressions of the traditional Harlequin figure. Each bloom develops its own balance of pale and vivid tones.

Is Harlekin the same rose as Kiss of Desire?
Yes. Kiss of Desire is an alternative name used for the Harlekin climbing rose.

Do all the flowers have the same colouring?
No. The width and intensity of the pink edging can vary naturally between flowers and may also change with sunlight, temperature and the stage of opening.

How strong is the fragrance?
Harlekin has a strong and charming fragrance with the familiar character of a wild rose. Planting it near a path, terrace or seating area makes the perfume easier to enjoy.

Does Harlekin flower repeatedly?
Yes. It produces repeated flushes throughout the season rather than offering only one main flowering period.

How tall does Harlekin grow?
It can reach approximately 2.5–3 metres, depending on climate, soil, pruning and general growing conditions.

Does it need a climbing support?
Yes. Harlekin should be tied to a sturdy arch, pergola, trellis, fence or wall support because climbing roses do not attach themselves naturally.

How should I train the stems?
Tie the main stems horizontally or diagonally whenever the structure permits. This encourages flowering shoots to develop along a greater length of each cane.

Where should I plant Harlekin?
Choose a sunny position with good air circulation and enough space for the mature stems. Its unusual colouring is particularly effective where the flowers can be viewed from nearby.

Is Harlekin suitable for smaller gardens?
Yes, when there is enough vertical support. Training the rose upward allows it to create an impressive display while using relatively little ground space.

What plants combine well with Harlekin?
White roses, pale pink clematis, lavender, nepeta and blue salvia complement its bicolour flowers. Dark green foliage provides a strong background for the cream and pink tones.

Is it suitable for beginners?
Its sturdy growth, good disease resistance and repeat flowering make it a reassuring choice, provided it receives full sun, a strong support and regular tying as the stems develop.

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 beside a sturdy support, water thoroughly and begin tying in new stems as they grow. For detailed guidance, visit our complete planting guide →.