I am not one to judge a rose too early, either good or bad. However, Ping Lim's Kasmir, which I planted (own root) this spring, has me so pleased that I want to sing its praises and recommend it to others.

This is a wonderful shrub!! It is perfectly balanced in shape and growth, completely covered in handsome dark foliage. The growth has been amazingly vigorous for an own root rose. The flowers are quite large and a voluptuous dark red that doesn't turn pink and lasts well on the bush and in a vase. (My camera doesn't do the color justice). To top it off, it's supposed to be hardy to zone 4B. I'll be sure to report back in the spring to let you know how that worked out.

I also got Lim's Champagne Wishes, which is also very lovely but not quite the superstar that Kashmir has been. It too has very balanced growth and abundant foliage. It's almost the opposite of Kashmir, with light green foliage and creamy white flowers.