Per ARE email, parentage is Dee-Lish X (Thomas Affleck X Autumn Damask). Or, in other words, "Lasting Memories" is a cross between "Dee-Lish" and "Southern Damask", and a sister to (or simply a rename of) "Cologne King". Additionally, this rose was formerly sold as/named "Sultry Kiss" prior to renaming as "Lasting Memories".

Blooms last about 5 days on the bush in full sun. Extremely vigorous in MD 7B, first year is already 4ft x 4ft, clean foliage, not one thorn anywhere, even basals and under leaves, legitimately the only truly thornless rose I've ever come across. Virtually no blackspot despite high BS pressure in a hot and humid no-spray garden. Fast repeat flushes every 4 weeks through frost.

Color is very similar to double knockout roses, but the blooms are larger, well cupped and reminiscent of old David Austin roses e.g. Graham Thomas. Prior to falling off the rose, petals fade to light/mid-purple, as opposed to the washed-out pink of the double knock out.

Only disappointment thus far is the strength of the fragrance. It's mild, moderate on the best of days, typically only during mid morning and again in late afternoon. A mix of old rose and lemongrass to my nose, certainly taking after Dee-Lish but much milder in strength. No wafting. Perhaps with age, or in a different environment, the fragrance will be stronger.

A great rose for bold color in high-traffic areas.