Legendary Iowa State University horticulturist Griffith Buck developed more than 90 rose varieties from the late 1940s to his retirement in 1985. Revered by rose lovers, his roses are considered among the world's hardiest and most beautiful. Many seem to thrive anywhere, from the chilly Midwest to the sweltering South. Pest resistant and disease tolerant, Buck's plants also are lauded for their environmental friendliness. Iowa State's Reiman Gardens is home to the world's largest Buck rose collection.