Hi RaeAnna,

I suggest you ask this question on the Antique Roses Forum, though no doubt folks will see it here too. Charles de Mills is notorious for spreading wildly, so if it is an own root plant think about that when you plant it. You can also plant it with some sort of root barrier to keep it from spreading too much (like a large can with the bottom cut out). It is a really glorious rose and tends to grow as a thicket rather than a "bush."

Do you know where in the world you are?

Gallica roses are often Napoleonic in their desire to take over the world. Traditionally, they were planted in the middle of the yard so they could be pruned by lawnmower.

On* the fence. I didn’t read this before I posted it. It’s decided. Calling off my order.

Just so you do know. The once blooming European roses are the most beautiful roses period. If I had a postage stamp yard, I would atleast grow one. They are my absolute favorite. Never will I regret trying them.

I haven't ventured to try ol' Chuckie myself mainly because of all the reports of his world dominating tendencies.

Even an R. gallica 'Officinalis' I rustled wanted to spread like syrup on a toddler and I was slightly relieved the new start I planted ended up meeting Mr. Lawnmower a bit too often and ended it.

Plus, tying in to a small part of what Mad stated- do you get enough winter chill hours to have Charles bloom and be "healthy"? These roses and their ilk NEED winter cold to prosper and bloom properly.

Steven