All roses have the same basic needs. But not all roses are the same. Some stand up straight, others tend to be floppier, still others tend to climb or sprawl.

Size can range from 2 feet to over 20 feet. Blossom types also vary, with some plants sporting the classic florist's rose; others are cupped or shaped more like a rosette; and still others are flat with somewhat sparse petals. They may sit by themselves on a stem, or form part of a large cluster of blooms.

Another important difference is bloom season. Some roses bloom prolifically in spring and then fade to foliage only for the rest of the growing season. Others, known as repeat bloomers, may not be quite as full in the first bloom but will continue to produce flowers throughout the summer into fall.

Finding the type of rose you want means knowing the general characteristics of the different categories of roses and the descriptive terms used for rose blossoms.