This volume serves as a comprehensive reference work designed to categorize and provide cultivation guidance for a wide variety of historical and modern rose cultivars. Peter Beales, a renowned rosarian, utilizes his extensive practical experience and botanical knowledge to document the characteristics, origins, and maintenance requirements of old roses, shrub roses, and climbing varieties. The text functions as both a visual catalog and a technical manual for enthusiasts and professional growers alike.

Experts and horticulturalists recognize this work as a definitive resource for the identification and care of heritage rose species. Readers frequently note the high quality of the photographic documentation and the clarity of the technical instructions provided throughout the manual.