AUScot
Bred by: David C. H. Austin (1926-2018) in the United Kingdom, 1985.
Plant Type: "Abraham Darby" is a shrub rose belonging to the English Rose Collection.
Flower Color: The flowers are apricot and light pink, with lighter edges, creating a beautiful and delicate color gradient.
Fragrance: The rose boasts a strong and fruity fragrance, adding a delightful scent to its visual beauty.
Petals: The blooms feature an impressive 70 petals, contributing to a lush and full appearance.
Bloom Form: The flowers have a large, very full form with over 41 petals. They are cluster-flowered and arranged in small clusters. The cupped, old-fashioned, and quartered bloom form adds a touch of nostalgia.
Bloom Period: "Abraham Darby" is known for its prolific and continuous bloom throughout the growing season, ensuring a constant display of its charming flowers. The large buds add anticipation to the blooming process.
Growth Characteristics: The rose has a tall, arching growth habit, and it's armed with thorns/prickles for protection. Its medium, glossy, medium green foliage is dense and complements the beauty of the flowers.
Height and Width: The rose can reach a height of 4 to 10 feet (120 to 305 cm) and a width of 3 to 5 feet (90 to 150 cm), making it suitable for various garden sizes and layouts.
Hardiness Zones: "Abraham Darby" can thrive in USDA hardiness zones 5b through 10b, covering a wide range of climates.
Usage: It can be used as a cut flower due to its attractive blooms, and it's also suitable for garden planting. Its hardiness and versatility make it a great choice for different garden styles. Additionally, it can be trained as a climber to add vertical interest.
Disease Susceptibility: While it offers many desirable features, "Abraham Darby" is noted as susceptible to black spots, a common rose disease.
Overall, "Abraham Darby" is a beloved and renowned rose variety with its beautiful coloration, strong fragrance, and classic bloom form. Its adaptability to various garden settings, including training as a climber, makes it a versatile choice for rose enthusiasts.