I am interested in (somehow) getting more examples of this class, even though I lack the space, simply because it includes some distinctive, historic, and very unique varieties. What are now referred to as the China class of roses are the result of the varieties that came to the West via the spice trades, in particular during the 1700 and early 1800s. These tend to be ancient varieties, some cultivated for 1000 years or more. They are often said to have more refined growth, and certainly are twiggier than the thick and sometimes garish growth of a modern hybrid tea.
We owe this class a great deal, as through successive breeding, they are the varieties that brought us repeat blooming and true red colors. With only a few exceptions, neither of those traits had previously existed in European roses.
At the moment, my sole representative of this class is actually thought to be a cross between a China and a Bourbon, Eugène de Beauharnais.
