1913 Biltmore Rose Catalog says, "One can grow enthusiastic over almost any rose, but there are a few that so arouse the emotions that to speak calmly of them is impossible. Here is the J. B. Clark Rose, for instance, a delightful blossom possessing both the attributes of gorgeousness and splendor--a great, massive burst of deep scarlet, shading to blackish crimson and maroon, that seems to lord it over all its fellows by reason of its size and beauty. Some of the blossoms are as much as several inches through, and grow upon long, stiff stems to accommodate and accentuate the magnitude of the flowers. The plant is magnificent in its riot of color and bloom, and one can hardly imagine its beauty when covered with the great full-double flowers. The foliage is bronze-green, and the plant is remarkably hardy."