AUSchild

Description:
The English Rose AUSchild is a dramatic David Austin variety, known among gardeners as “Fisherman’s Friend.” It stands out for its velvety, dark crimson-purple blooms and exceptionally strong old-rose fragrance. The flowers are full and deeply cupped, opening in generous flushes throughout the season. With its upright growth and bold coloration, AUSchild brings a rich, classic look to borders and cutting gardens. This is also a notably thorny variety, with heavily armed canes that give it a rugged, traditional character—ideal for those who value both beauty and presence in the garden. Strong health and reliable repeat flowering make it a standout among the darker-toned English roses.

Key Features:

• Color: Deep, velvety crimson-purple

• Fragrance: Exceptionally strong, classic old-rose scent

• Bloom Size: Medium to large blooms, typically 3.5–4.5 inches across

• Bloom Form: Deeply cupped, full rosettes with many petals

• Plant Size: Upright, bushy habit; about 3.5–4.5 ft tall and 3–4 ft wide

• Foliage: Healthy, dark green leaves that highlight the bloom color

• Thorniness: Very thorny canes; substantial thorns along stems

• Disease Resistance: Good with regular garden care

• Best Uses: Borders, cutting gardens (with care), and fragrant focal plantings