David Austin Lady of Shalott Rose
The Lady of Shalott Rose is one of the most reliable and prolific bloomers in the David Austin collection. Named after the famous Alfred, Lord Tennyson poem, this rose is as poetic as its namesake. Known for its remarkable hardiness and striking color, it brings a luminous, sunset-like glow to any garden or floral arrangement.
Signature Features & Aesthetics
- Luminous Color Gradient: The buds are a rich, striking orange-red that open into chalice-shaped blooms. Each petal features an apricot-yellow upper surface with a contrasting deep pink-tinged underside, creating a shimmering, multi-tonal effect.
- Classic Chalice Form: This rose maintains a beautiful, informal cup shape throughout its life, with approximately 60 petals that catch the light beautifully.
- Warm Tea Fragrance: It boasts a pleasant, medium-strong tea fragrance with spiced notes of apple and clove, adding a sophisticated sensory layer to its visual beauty.
- Exceptional Versatility: Because of its warm tones, it bridges the gap between vibrant summer palettes and the rich, earthy tones of late autumn.
Why Choose Lady of Shalott Roses?
- The “Reliable” Garden Rose: Celebrated for its robust health and disease resistance, this is the perfect variety for both novice gardeners and professional landscapers.
- Prolific Bloomer: It is known for its incredible “repeat-flowering” ability, providing a continuous display of apricot blooms from early summer until the first frosts.
- Dynamic Growth: With its gracefully arching stems, it can be grown as a large shrub or trained as a short climber, making it ideal for fences, obelisks, or mixed borders.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Details |
| Breeder | David Austin (United Kingdom) |
| Color | Rich Apricot with Golden-Yellow Reverse |
| Flower Form | Chalice-Shaped / Cupped |
| Petal Count | 60+ Petals |
| Fragrance | Medium-Strong (Spiced Tea and Apple) |
| Vase Life | 5 to 7 Days |
| Height/Spread | 125cm (H) x 110cm (W) |
Professional Care Instructions
To ensure your Lady of Shalott Garden Roses thrive and glow:
- Sunlight Exposure: For the most vibrant orange tones, plant in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
- Feeding Schedule: Apply a high-potash rose fertilizer in early spring and again after the first flush of blooms to encourage heavy re-blooming.
- Strategic Pruning: In late winter, prune back by about one-third to encourage a bushy, well-branched habit.
- Hydration: If using as a cut flower, harvest in the “soft bud” stage (when the color is showing but the petals haven’t fully unfurled) for the longest vase life.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture and keep the roots cool during peak summer.
