Heirloom Roses lists Stephens Big Purple as hardy to zone 6 (-10 to 0 degrees). I purchased it from Heirloom and planted it last August 2021 It came through the winter fine, lowest temperature -19 degrees in southcentral Wisconsin z5a with no winter protection and not much snow.

Out of the hundreds of roses I have grown, this is definitely in the top 10 - really healthy and vigorous - great colour, reliable blooms, not bad in rain, prolific recurrence. And, of roses supposed to be fragrant, this one really is, and in a variety of weather conditions - highly fragrant. Really gives me pleasure every year.

Note previous comment - Palatine roses is spelled with a T not D - agree they are one of the best places to buy roses.

Always faithful and beautiful and vigorous. Zone 5 too. Strong but pleasant scent.

I don't understand the hardiness designations. Do they mean 7b without any winter protection for Big Purple (and others)? None of my roses have had a problem with northern winter except Mr. Lincoln and for some reason, the original "Knock Out" rose. Doesn't make sense to other people I see in their comments either.