I got Clara at Trader Joe's last year. First she got blackspot, but soon recovered. Now the Japanese beetles seem to think she's the prettiest girl at the party. The beetles just bore right into those fleshy little buds and make a little love nest for themselves. It's okay, she's tough: made it though the winter and remains as bushy as ever. She tries hard to maintain her shape and send up buds. In a way, I'm glad for her popularity with the beetles as she distracts them from some of my more precious roses on the other side of the garden.

The reason why I bought her, though, was for her interesting color. I really wanted a greenish-white rose and that's what she is. Unfortunately because of the beetle damage, I haven't been able to use her in any bouquets yet. I am considering putting organdy bags over the buds to protect them from further damage.