Sally Holmes sits in a rare category of roses that are both dramatic in scale and accommodating in temperament. The 1976 cross between Ivory Fashion and Ballerina produced a vigorous shrub that climbs to 12 feet if trained, or spreads to 6 feet in a more open form. The flowers are single, white to cream with yellow stamens, and they appear in large clusters throughout the season rather than in one flush. The Royal Horticultural Society recognised it with an Award of Garden Merit, and it is easy to see why: few roses offer this combination of size, continuity, and grace.

The glossy green foliage on nearly prickle-free canes makes Sally Holmes pleasant to work with during pruning in late winter. It does best in full sun but tolerates partial shade better than most climbers. Plant in fertile, moist, well-drained soil and mulch to help moisture retention. Prune crossing and dead canes in late winter and cut remaining canes back by a third or more if needed to keep the structure manageable. Some susceptibility to blackspot exists, but overall disease resistance is good. Hardy from zone 5 to 9, it is a versatile rose for borders, cutting gardens, and structures alike.