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Roses are often seen as the standard for beauty in the garden. Their layered petals, rich colors, and classic look make them a favorite for many gardeners. Still, roses can take a bit of effort to grow well, especially if soil, weather, or pests don’t cooperate.
For anyone who enjoys the look of roses but prefers plants that ask for less attention, there are several flowers that offer a similar feel without the same level of upkeep.
Here are 18 flowers that bring rose-like beauty into the garden.
Ranunculus
Ranunculus produces tightly layered petals that look almost like tissue paper folded into blooms. The flowers come in a wide range of colors and work well in bouquets. They grow best in cool seasons with well-drained soil and steady sunlight or light shade.
African Marigold
African marigolds form round, full blooms in warm shades of yellow and orange. Their dense petals give a rose-like shape, but they grow easily in most gardens and bloom for long stretches through warm weather.
Camellia
Camellias grow on evergreen shrubs and produce flowers that closely resemble roses. Bloom time varies by variety, often from winter into spring. Their glossy leaves and layered blooms in white, pink, or red make them stand out in shaded garden spots.
Peony
Peonies are known for large, full blooms packed with petals. Some varieties look very close to oversized roses. They prefer cooler climates and grow best in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight.
Double Tulip
Double tulips have extra layers of petals that give them a full, rounded shape. Their appearance can resemble roses or peonies. They bloom in spring and come in many colors, from soft pastels to bold tones.
Carnation
Carnations produce ruffled petals that form compact blooms similar to small roses. They last a long time in vases and come in many colors. These flowers grow well in sunny spots with well-drained soil.
Gardenia
Gardenias are known for creamy white blooms and a strong, sweet fragrance. Their flowers have a soft, rose-like shape and appear from spring into summer. They prefer warm, humid conditions and slightly acidic soil.
Double Impatiens
Double impatiens produce layered blooms that resemble small roses. They grow well in shaded areas and continue blooming through warm months. Moist soil and regular watering keep them at their best.
Lisianthus
Lisianthus flowers have soft, ruffled petals that often get compared to roses. They bloom in shades of white, pink, purple, and lavender. These flowers prefer sunny areas with well-drained soil.
Begonia
Some begonia varieties produce double blooms that look similar to miniature roses. They thrive in partial shade and grow well in containers or garden beds. Their flowers come in pink, red, and white tones.
Double Daffodil
Double daffodils produce layered petals that give each bloom a full, rounded shape. They bloom in early spring and bring bright yellow, white, or cream tones to the garden.
Hydrangea
Hydrangeas produce large flower clusters that can resemble oversized rose heads when fully open. Their color can shift based on soil conditions. They prefer morning sun with afternoon shade and moist soil.
Geranium
Some geranium varieties produce tightly packed blooms that resemble small rosebuds. They grow well in containers and garden beds and come in a wide range of colors.
Anemone
Anemones have simple petals surrounding a dark center, with some varieties resembling single-petal roses. They bloom in cool weather and come in shades of blue, pink, red, purple, and white.
Poppy
Double poppies, especially peony-style types, have full, layered petals that look similar to roses. Their blooms are soft and paper-like and appear in bright, striking colors.
Hibiscus
Hibiscus flowers are large and bold, with single or double forms that can resemble tropical roses. They thrive in warm, sunny conditions and produce blooms in a range of vibrant colors.
Persian Buttercup (Ranunculus)
Persian buttercups are another form of ranunculus known for their dense, rose-like petals. They shine in spring gardens and also work well as cut flowers.
Alstroemeria
Alstroemeria produces clusters of striped, colorful blooms that resemble small lilies with a rose-like fullness. They bloom for long periods and work well in both gardens and arrangements.
