Falstaff’ – English Shrub Rose

Origins & Naming

• Bred by David C. H. Austin and introduced in 1999, named after Shakespeare's jovial and robust character Sir John Falstaff.

Flower Characteristics

• Blooms are large and shallowly cupped, initially a lush dark crimson that deepens to a rich purple-red as petals age emerisa.com+9davidaustinroses.com+9davidaustinrosesaustralia.com+9.

• Exceptionally full flowers (around 110 petals) with interfolded centers that create a glowing saucer effect visitrosewoodgardens.com+4rosesabc.com+4emerisa.com+4.

• Fragrant with a medium to strong Old Rose scent with slight fruity or oriental notes 

Habit & Size

• Grows as a medium, bushy shrub, about 1.2–1.5 m tall and 0.9–1.2 m wide .

• In warmer climates or with support, it can become a short climber (up to ~2–3 m) 

Flowering & Foliage

• Repeat-flowering from late spring to autumn, with blooms often appearing in small clusters or singly 

• Foliage is dark green, leathery, semi-glossy, and offers good disease resistance 

Growing Conditions & Care

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• Suitable for mixed borders, hedging, paths, or as a patio rose—especially where fragrance and visual drama are desired .

• Requires moderate pruning in early spring; can be trained laterally to develop more blooms .

🌟 Highlights & Garden Use

• Striking flower color: Dynamic crimson-to-purple blooms that captivate the eye.

• Strong fragrance: A powerful Old Rose aroma enriched with fruity/oriental notes.

• Versatile growth: Works well as a compact shrub or a short climber.

• Reliable repeat flowering ensures garden performance throughout the growing season.

• Resilient foliage: Glossy leaves with good disease tolerance.

🌱 Grower Feedback & Reviews

From gardeners on Reddit:

"Wow!! What type of rose is this?! It's a David Austin rose - called Falstaff. Pretty and fragrant 🌹" t "Stumbled across this variety … fat, vain, and boastful, just like its namesake. And he's a bit of a climber."