Magnificent dark crimson blooms
that are full and large, measuring 5 inches across. The Dark Lady has proved to be a
very good English Rose selection for growing in the United States. It is related to
the Rugosa Rose and this relationship provides extra hardiness as well as a distinct Old
rose fragrance. Plants are both branching and spreading making them ideal for a hedge or
foundation planting. The name 'The Dark Lady' is taken from the mystery lady
of Shakespeare's Sonnets. Height: Bush ; Height= 4ft Width= 4ft
Fragrance: Old Rose
Year Introduced: 1991
Patented: Yes
Zones: 5 - 9
English Rose Culture:
Roses do their best in soils that are rich in organic matter and slightly on the acidic
side. Before planting add plenty of well rotted manure and compost. Mulch well
in the winter and again in the spring. Roses do not like to compete with other
plants so allow 24 inches of space for just the roots of the rose plant itself.
English roses look best when planted in groups of three and allowed to grow together and
become one dense shrub. We suggest that you plant in area that receives a minimum of
5 hours of direct sun (some afternoon shade will help preserve bloom colors).
Roses, especially the heavy blooming English varieties benefit greatly from a good feeding
program. Top dress the soil with a combination of blood and bone meals in early
spring and then again in midsummer. Do not feed to late in the growing season as
this can cause winter kill due to soft growth forming from fertilizing to late in the
season. Foliar feed every two to three weeks with fish emulsion or seaweed extract.
In colder climates winter protection may be required. To protect from winters
cold apply a ten inch deep mulch of pine bark or straw - remove promptly in the spring
before new growth begins to show.
Pruning:
Summer pruning and deadheading helps to encourage repeat flowering and makes a
neater more tidy plant. In very warm climates you may need to reduce the height of
the plant by 24 inches after flowering in order to properly control the size of the shrub.
Cooler climates can usually just dead head and selectively prune to shape as
desired.
Winter pruning is very easy and should be carried out in very early spring as soon
as new growth appears. Remove any weak or damaged stems and then reduce the
entire shrub by one third. Prune to adjust height and avoid thinning.
For more information see our guide on gardening with English Roses
David Austin's English Rose 'The Dark Lady'
