Rosa Benjamin Britten - English Shrub Rose

The English rose bush Benjamin Britten displays unusual English flowers that open in a pinkish salmon colour, then bloom into a very intense, almost red, pink shade. The flowers with deep cups contain intensely fruity scents, nuanced with hints of wine and pear. Of medium height, the bush is dense, vigorous, and covered with beautiful foliage.

This 1.25m (4ft) tall and 1m (3ft) wide perennial exhibits vigorous growth, a dense and bushy habit, and magnificent light green foliage. Its light and slightly trailing branches gracefully bear continuous flowering from May until frost. Highly disease-resistant, it stands out with the unusual colour of its roses, contrasting with the pastel tones typically found in English roses. They blend pink and red with salmon or orange highlights. The flowers with deep cups gradually open to form a slightly cupped, very double rosette, 10cm (4in) in diameter. They exude an intense fragrance, dominated by fruity notes. It can evoke, through its complexity, the captivating and concentrated scent one perceives upon entering a florist's shop. This variety also withstands rain very well and does not collapse under the weight of its flowers.

'Benjamin Britten' is an ideal bush to bring a touch of colour and warm up the pastel tones offered by most English Roses. Of medium height, it integrates well in shrub borders (including other roses), perennials (sage, catmint, mullein...) as well as grasses. You will also love it due to its small size, allowing you to plant it in pots on the patio or balcony.

By its name, this rose commemorates the life and work of the famous English composer, conductor, and actor Benjamin Britten.

Obtained by David Austin in 2001. English hybrid of Leander.