Inside the White House Rose Garden: A complete flower guide with seasonal highlights

The White House is not all about the Oval Office, the East Wing, or the South Lawn.

The Rose Garden, bordering the Oval Office and the West Wing, is one of the most significant spaces in the official residence and workplace of the president of the United States, in Washington, D.C.

And as of now, renovations are underway for the historic Rose Garden. Earlier this month, construction crews broke ground on the outdoor area after President Donald Trump ordered a major remodel, including replacing the grass with gravel. The US President had said in previous interviews that he wanted the area paved for the ease of visitors − specifically those in heeled footwear. Trump had suggested at the time that the grass would go, but the flowers could stay, while telling Fox News confidently, “I think it’s going to be more beautiful.”


Approximately 125 feet long and 60 feet wide, the White House Rose Garden is where history, elegance, and seasonal flair converge in a polished, yet delightfully natural tableau. More than a backdrop for diplomacy, presidential addresses, or peace treaties – it’s a living canvas that changes with the seasons – bursting with roses, bulbs, shrubs, and more.

With this article, step inside the verdant charm of the White House Rose Garden, with historical anecdotes and blooming beauties.


A blossoming timeline


Colonial beginnings (1902–1913):

First Lady Edith Roosevelt first transformed this patch of land—once a greenhouse and stable—into a charming colonial garden filled with daisies, Johnny-jump-ups, and boxwood edgings.

Formal establishment (1913):

First Lady Ellen Wilson officially named it the Rose Garden, bringing in George Burnap to structure the space with formal beds and pathways.

1930s enhancements:

Under FDR, Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. added cast-iron seating and refined sightlines, perfecting the blend of beauty and ceremony.

Kennedy makeover (1961–62):

In 1962, Rachel “Bunny” Mellon, at President Kennedy’s request, reimagined the garden as a hybrid of aesthetic beauty and practical design – capable of hosting 1,000 guests. The key improvements include a 50×100‑foot central lawn framed by four saucer magnolias in the corners, and borders featuring Katherine crabapple trees, boxwood hedging, and seasonal blooming plants. Moreover, a carefully chosen rose assortment was created, with heritage varieties like Queen Elizabeth, Pascali, Pat Nixon, King’s Ransom, and the cool-toned Nevada shrub rose. But that’s not all. Bunny redesigned the garden with a formal framework: a lush central lawn flanked by saucer magnolia corners, Katherine crabapples, boxwood, and thyme – apart from the signature roses.

The result? A “green theater of diplomacy”—a living stage for historic moments, from astronaut welcomes to press events and bridal ceremonies.

2020 refresh:

First Lady Melania Trump revitalized the garden, adding ADA-compliant limestone paths, drainage enhancements, and more than 200 disease-resistant roses, including the “Pope John Paul II” rose.



Seasonal splendor: What blooms when

As the seasons change, so does the vibrant tapestry of blooms that graces the White House Rose Garden and its landscape.

Spring: brings a vibrant array of blooms, starting with an impressive selection of bulbs. Among the eye-catching flowers are tulips, daffodils, jonquils, grape hyacinth, squill, and chionodoxa, each adding pops of color to the landscape. Fritillaria also graces the garden, contributing to the seasonal beauty. Additionally, the majestic saucer magnolias stand out, adorning the four corners with their splendid floral displays.


Summer: the roses take center stage in this floral showcase. The classic tones of Queen Elizabeth, Pascali, Pat Nixon, King’s Ransom, and Nevada roses create a striking visual impact. Modern tributes to leaders and peace are represented by the JFK Rose, Peace Rose, and Pope John Paul II Rose – each bringing its unique flair to the garden. Not to be overlooked, the resilient Knock Out varieties are carefully chosen for their capability to thrive in the DC climate. To maintain a fresh and colorful atmosphere throughout the season, annuals and ornamental grasses are refreshed yearly, enhancing both texture and vibrancy.

Fall and early winter: the Rose Garden transforms again, with chrysanthemums and flowering kale providing late-season charm as the temperatures begin to cool. These plants add a warm, inviting touch to the landscape, ensuring that beauty persists even as the growing season winds down.


A floral guide: The complete flower roster

The complete flower roster showcases the diverse and stunning options available for each season. The roses include the Queen Elizabeth (Grandiflora), Pascali (tea rose), Pat Nixon (tea rose), King’s Ransom (tea rose), and Nevada (white shrub rose), alongside hybrids like the JFK Rose, Peace Rose, and Pope John Paul II Rose, well-known for their fragrance and symbolism. Knock Out roses are resilient, modern shrubs that add longevity to the garden.