Where do you garden?

What fungal diseases are problems where you are located?

Jeri

These roses have the same parentage and both are wonderfully fragrant HTs. I love both of them and have grown both.

Mr. Lincoln is probably more vigorous overall -- stronger plant, better bloomer. Its ARS rating is 8.3 vs 7.0 for Oklahoma -- which gives a general idea of the difference. The bush grows tall and relatively narrow, so keep this in mind when choosing a planting spot. the bloom color is deep red, but without the black velvet shade of Oklahoma.

OTOH, I have a sentimental soft spot for Oklahoma with it's black velvet blooms. The blooms are prettier when the weather is cool. The bush doesn't grow as tall as Mr. L. When I lived in Santa Fe, Oklahoma required extra winter protection. The blooms were gorgeous in the northern New Mexico garden.

Bear in mind, both Oklahoma and Mister Lincoln are vintage hybrid teas circa 1964. Depending on your location, regular fungicide spray may be needed to keep them disease free.

Yes, they both have to be sprayed.

Oklahoma is more productive than ML, but ML's blooms are exhibition form on very long stems with single buds. Oklahoma has a stronger scent, but is less consistent, if that makes sense (scents?). Oklahoma's blooms have more petals, but often nod with weak stems - ML's do not. Oklahoma's blooms last longer, but they're not as perfect form.

Bottom line, if you want something that most resembles the tight buds and super-long stems of a dozen red florist roses, then go with ML. If you want a nice looking, productive rose bush with many flowers and fast repeat, then go with Oklahoma.

Simple answer is both, with Chrysler Imperial added as a third. All are marvelous, beautiful, incredibly fragrant roses.