Book  (Apr 1993)  Page(s) 52.  
 
Black Bess Floribunda, dr, 1939; bud long; flowers blackish crimson, borne in clusters, semi-dbl., exhibition form, slight fragrance; foliage dark, bronze; vigorous, bushy growth; , 'Dance of Joy' x 'Crimson Glory'; Kordes; Morse

Book  (1947)  Page(s) 106.  
 
BLACK BESS (Multiflora rambler) is a pillar rose of vigorous growth, with very dark crimson, scented, semi-double flowers, borne in clusters. Foliage is deep bronze-green.
Kordes 1939. Deciduous. Climber. Moderately fragrant...July-August. Hardy.

Book  (1940)  Page(s) 21.  
 
Black Bess Mlt. (Kordes; introduced by H. Morse, 1939)... blackish crimson...