I got this as cuttings from a friend, along with 'Ayrshire Splendens' and 'Ayrshire Queen'. The latter two as found in commerce appear to be identical, as has come up in HMF discussion on these varieties, 'Ayrshire Splendens' having been substituted for 'Ayrshire Queen'. So far so good. But I also don't see any difference between my 'Venusta Pendula' and 'Ayrshire Splendens'. Are they two distinct varieties? I note particularly the dark growth, thorniness, flexible canes, pink-touched white buds, and strong myrrh fragrance. I would like to hear from anyone who can tell me of differences between these two varieties. Thanks!

This rose was growing in my neighbours' garden in shady woodland conditions with slender stems about 2 metres into a willow bush. It does not look very vigorous but considering the conditions aren't perfect it is doing well, it appeared as my neighbours have been slowly taming a jungle of neglected garden. I had half thought it was 'Venusta Pendula' but the flowers have a pronounced myrrh scent. Even today with heavy showers and 13C the flowers have at least a mid to strong myrrh fragrance.