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Plant of Merit: Rosa ‘Pat Austin’ named for rose breeder’s wife

Published 1:30 am Saturday, September 2, 2017

By Sandra Schumacher

Plant of Merit: Rosa ‘Pat Austin’ named for rose breeder’s wife
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Plant of Merit: Rosa ‘Pat Austin’ named for rose breeder’s wife
Rosa “Pat Austin” was named for English rose breeder David Austin’s wife. His roses have the character and fragrance of old garden roses but have the repeat-blooming ability and color varieties of modern roses. (Sandra Schumacher)

What: Rosa “Pat Austin” was introduced in 1995 by the famous English rose breeder David Austin, in honor of his wife. It was a color breakthrough at the time: It has bright copper on the inside of the petals and a pale copper-yellow on the outer sides. Its gorgeous, satin-like 5-inch cupped flowers show the contrasting colors of the two sides of the petals. In addition, “Pat Austin” is a repeat bloomer with a strong tea scent. Time has only proven it to be more desirable for the residential garden.

Sun/shade: Protect this rose from the afternoon sun for longer lasting coloration. Long exposure to morning sun is ideal.

Size: This shrub rose will mature at about 7 feet tall and 4 feet wide.

See it: In the Snohomish County Master Gardener Demonstration Garden, at the Evergreen Arboretum &Gardens at Legion Memorial Park, 145 Alverson Blvd., Everett.

— Sandra Schumacher

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