The Jane Falk Oppenheimer Heirloom Rose Garden offers a delightful collection of antique and newer roses within an old-fashioned garden setting. Planted among the roses and along this garden’s borders are a host of popular perennials used to extend the seasonal interest of the garden. Named for Jane Falk Oppenheimer, who, along with her husband Arthur, donated the funding to initiate this garden.
Antique or heirloom roses are “all roses that were in
existence before the introduction in 1867 of La France”, the very first hybrid
tea rose. In the Jane Falk Oppenheimer Heirloom Rose Garden, we feature roses
bred and introduced before 1920, along with more modern varieties.
The Heirloom Rose Garden is designed to harmonize with
its picturesque surroundings. Sandstone terraces reflect the contours of the
Boise foothills and the rustic stone walls of the Old Penitentiary. It is one
of IBG’s older gardens, opening in 1989.
This area is at its best at the end of May or early
June when the most of the antique roses are in bloom. Notice how many of the roses have stems
covered with prickles. Over time
breeders developed roses that bloom for several months instead of a few weeks,
had a wide range of colors, and had fewer prickles. This garden is planted over the foundation of what was
the Idaho State Penitentiary’s school building.