A rose has been named after Catherine, Princess of Wales, to highlight the healing power of nature. The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) announced on May 9, 2025, that the flower, called 'Catherine's Rose', aims to raise awareness about the role of outdoor activities in enhancing mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing.
The floribunda rose features coral-pink blooms that emit a delightful scent reminiscent of Turkish Delight and mango. As part of its charitable initiative, the RHS will donate £5 from each sale to the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, where the princess was treated for cancer.
The Princess of Wales revealed her cancer diagnosis in March 2024 and underwent preventative chemotherapy, which she completed in September 2024. In January 2025, she made a surprise visit to the Royal Marsden Hospital to express her gratitude to the staff and share her remission news with patients, reassuring them that there is "light at the end of the tunnel."
According to Clare Matterson, RHS Director General, "Catherine's Rose" will not only support the incredible work of the Royal Marsden but also emphasize how nature and gardening can aid in healing. Matterson stated, "We know how important this message is as every day we see how accessing nature and being outside is vital for our health and happiness."
The rose is designed to attract pollinators and is suitable for various gardening settings, including mixed borders, hedges, and large containers. Clusters of blooms can feature up to 15 flowers, each measuring between 8 and 12 cm, and the plant itself can grow to about 1.2 meters tall and 90 cm wide.
Philip Harkness, Managing Director of Harkness Roses, expressed delight at the RHS naming this stunning floribunda rose after the Princess of Wales. He emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating, "It is a privilege for Harkness Roses to work with The Royal Marsden, where donations from this beautiful rose will help raise funds for this vital charity."
In total, 15,000 "Catherine's Rose" plants will be available for purchase this autumn, with additional roses set to be released in 2026. The bare root rose will retail for £29.99, while the potted version will be priced at £34.99.
The announcement of "Catherine's Rose" aligns with the princess's ongoing advocacy for the healing benefits of nature. During a recent visit to the Lake District, she described her relationship with the natural world as "very spiritual" and spoke about her "intense emotional reconnection" with the environment. In a heartfelt message shared on Mother's Day, she referred to nature as a sanctuary for her family over the past year, emphasizing the importance of recognizing our bond with the natural world.
During her chemotherapy treatment, the princess had previously highlighted the power of nature in a series of Instagram posts, expressing her belief that nature supports our development and wellbeing. She remarked, "I know the power of nature to support our development and wellbeing, both by bringing us joy and helping to keep us physically, mentally, and spiritually healthy."
As the Chelsea Flower Show approaches, running from May 20 to 24, 2025, the RHS hopes that "Catherine's Rose" will inspire gardeners across the nation. The royal family traditionally attends this prestigious event, which showcases the best in gardening and horticulture.
The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, where Catherine received treatment, is committed to ensuring that every patient receives the care and support they need. Dame Cally Palmer, Chief Executive of the trust, expressed gratitude for the initiative, stating, "We are honoured to have Their Royal Highnesses The Prince and Princess of Wales as Joint Patrons of our specialist cancer centre, and we are very grateful to The Princess and the Royal Horticultural Society for setting up this initiative and for the benefit it will bring to cancer patients everywhere."
The launch of "Catherine's Rose" not only celebrates the princess's journey through cancer but also serves as a reminder of the profound connection between nature and healing. As the public embraces this new floral addition, it is hoped that the initiative will foster a greater appreciation for the natural world and its ability to support mental health and wellbeing.
With its vibrant coral-pink blooms and sweet fragrance, "Catherine's Rose" is poised to become a beloved addition to gardens across the UK, symbolizing hope, healing, and the enduring power of nature.
