Is Abraham Darby a Climbing Rose?
No, Abraham Darby is not typically classified as a climbing rose, but rather as an English Shrub Rose.
Botanical Classification and Characteristics of Abraham Darby
Botanical Classification: Abraham Darby belongs to the family Rosaceae and is a shrub rose, specifically an English Shrub Rose[2][3][5].
Growth Habits: It has a vigorous, bushy, and slightly arching growth habit[1][2][3].
Height and Width: The plant typically grows to a height of 135-165 cm (1.35-1.65 meters or 5-5.5 feet) and a width of 125-150 cm (1.25-1.5 meters or 4-5 feet)[1][2][5].
What are the Care Requirements for Abraham Darby?
While Abraham Darby is not a climbing rose, here are the general care requirements for this shrub rose:
Soil Type
It prefers fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil. The soil can be acid, alkaline, or neutral[3].
Sunlight Needs
It requires full sunlight and can thrive in east, south, or west-facing positions[2][3][5].
Watering Frequency
The soil should be kept moist but well-drained. Regular watering is necessary, especially during the first year after planting[3].
Pruning Techniques
Pruning should be done according to the guidelines for shrub roses (Pruning Group 21). This involves removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches and shaping the plant to maintain its bushy habit[3].
Availability and Pricing of Abraham Darby Roses
Abraham Darby roses are widely available from various nurseries and online retailers, but they are not typically sold as climbing roses.
Availability
They can be found at David Austin Roses, both in the UK and Australia, as well as other rose nurseries. They are available in bare root or potted forms, with bare root roses typically planted between November and April[2][5].
Pricing
The pricing varies depending on the nursery and the form of the plant (bare root or potted). For example, David Austin Roses offers them with a 5-year guarantee, and the shipping costs vary based on the location and order size[5].
Size Options
They are generally sold as large shrubs with the dimensions mentioned above[2][5].
References
- Roses ABC: Rose Abraham Darby – Roses ABC
- David Austin Roses Australia: Abraham Darby | English Shrub Rose – David Austin Roses – Australia
- Royal Horticultural Society: Rosa Abraham Darby (‘Auscot’) (S) – RHS
