Champlain and the fellow Canadian Explorer rose William Baffin were the first roses to bloom in my Midwest garden this year. (Out of 100+ roses). My theory is that these Zone 3-hardy varieties will bloom earlier than most other roses when situated in warmer climates (I am on the border of Zones 5 & 6). My region experienced a very warm April, and I believe Champlain and Billy Baffin were 'fooled' into thinking it was later in the season than it actually was! At least that's my theory.... Other than that, I love both of these roses for their toughness and willingness to bloom bloom bloom. Champlain's color is deep and velvety. A very saturated rich red. It's been in the ground less than a year, so the bush is still filling out, and looking a bit gangly. But it's making up for it in bloom power. Last season it went strong till the killing frost, even though it was a small specimen planted late in a punishingly hot season. Champlain is a workhorse in the garden! Claire, St Louis, Zone 5/6
