Rose Gardens
Portland’s climate is ideal for growing roses, and for those who love to do just that make sure you visit the International Rose Test Garden and Rose Garden Store managed by the Parks and Recreation Department (located at 850 SW Rose Garden Way).Founded in 1917, it is the oldest official, continuously operated public rose test garden in the United States. It is housed on 4.5 acres and has an approximate 10,000 rose plants of over 550 varieties planted on the grounds.The garden is tiered and faces downtown Portland with views of the Cascade Mountains (featuring Mount Hood) visible on clear days. A sign at the entrance to the garden announces the oldest rose on the property as having been planted in 1943, so you know there has to be a ton of history on the grounds.Two interesting facts that the garden shares about roses include:
- The oldest living rose bush (now the size of a tree) is located in Hildesheim, Germany and documentation proves its planting dating back to A.D. 815
- The largest rose bush is located in Tombstone, Arizona and has a trunk of almost six feet it diameter. It produces more than 200,000 white blooms during peak blooming.
The park is closed from December 23 to March 12 with peak blooming occurring from mid-May to late-June (depending on the variety), so plan your trip with those parameters in mind. Admisison to the gardens in free and there are period free concerts held throughout the season. Check the Portland Parks and Recreation website for details.