Bernard Delbard (1926-2020) was a renowned French breeder and horticulturist, and a leading figure in the world of roses. The son of founder Georges Delbard, he led the family company, Pépinières et Roseraies Delbard, for decades, bringing it to international success. His career was entirely dedicated to the creation of new rose varieties, with a particular focus on combining disease resistance, intense fragrance, and aesthetic beauty. Among his most important and universally recognized creations are 'Centenaire de Lourdes', one of the most widely grown roses in the world, the highly fragrant 'Dioressence', 'Souvenir de Marcel Proust', and the hardy 'La Sévillane', winner of the prestigious German ADR certificate. He also created the famous "Les roses de Peintres" and "Grands Parfums" collections. For his significant contribution to French and world horticulture, Bernard Delbard was made a Knight of the Legion of Honour in 1999.