For many, the Sugar Plum Fairy needs no introduction. She is the magical legendary creature who epitomizes goodness and light and transcends any earthly description. Composer Peter Illyich Tchaikovsky gave her a voice when he discovered the celesta (musical instrument) and gave it a massive solo in the Nutcracker. We all know the score of this legendary piece of music.

We found that this shrublike floribunda that produces deep pink, plum coloured blooms of a typical Damascena shape reminded us of this wonderful ballet.

The blooms exude a strong damask like fragrance. The very healthy foliage too has the nostalgic look of the old roses and the upper parts of the stems are smooth (thornless) which makes it easy to bend down to smell the blooms and to arrange them in a vase.

It will make a statement planted on its own or as a borders for shrubberies or mass beddings.