The ‘William Shakespeare 2000′ (AUSromeo) is a renowned David Austin English shrub rose, celebrated for its deep velvety crimson, quartered blooms that fade to purple. Released in 2000 to replace an earlier 1987 variety, it boasts strong disease resistance, powerful old rose fragrance, and a repeat-blooming, upright, bushy habit.
Key Characteristics of ‘William Shakespeare 2000’
- Color & Appearance: Velvety crimson blooms that turn to deep magenta/purple, often with over 100 petals and a quartered, cupped shape.
- Fragrance: Strong, warm, old rose scent, often with notes of damask.
- Growth Habit: Upright, well-branched, bushy shrub, typically reaching 105–130 cm in height.
- Bloom Cycle: Excellent repeat bloomer, producing flowers throughout the growing season in small clusters.
- Disease Resistance: Significantly improved disease resistance compared to its predecessor (1987 version), making it more reliable in the garden.
- Ideal Conditions: Thrives in full sun to partial shade in well-draining soil.
Origins and Usage
- Breeder: Bred by David C. H. Austin in the UK, released in 2000 as a replacement for the original 1987 ‘William Shakespeare’ rose.
- Garden Use: Ideal for borders, rose gardens, and, due to its upright nature, can be used for hedging.
- Significance: Named in honor of the famous playwright to celebrate his work, fitting for a romantic, classic garden style.
Notes on the Earlier Version
The original ‘William Shakespeare’ (1987) was also crimson and fragrant but was more susceptible to diseases like blackspot and rust, leading to its replacement by the 2000 edition.
The original ‘William Shakespeare’ (1987) was also crimson and fragrant but was more susceptible to diseases like blackspot and rust, leading to its replacement by the 2000 edition.
