In the Fall of 1961, I was asked by Agriculture Canada to look into the possibility of developing winterhardy and everblooming roses. (...) I knew nothing about roses. This was a blessing because I had no preconceived notion. I had to learn. The easiest way was by observation.

Felicitas Svejda, from: The Canadian Explorer Roses (2008)

Born in Vienna, Felicitas Svejda (1920-2016) is the creator of the Explorer roses and of many hardy ornamental shrubs cultivated in private and public Canadian gardens. The Montreal Botanical Garden Library is proud to present Felicitas Svejda: Scientist and rosarian, a virtual exhibit showcasing her work and archives.

Felicitas Svejda Her biography Her archives at the Botanical Garden Her correspondance Her publications Her personal library To learn more

Hybridization The scientific process Roses & shrubs selections (digitized archives) Notes on rose selections Cooperative trials Hybrids registration Research results on Explorer roses Trial Garden and Rose Garden

The flowers of her garden 25 Explorer roses Other roses and shrubs The Marie-Victorin rose Display at the Montréal Botanical Garden Rose Garden