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
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."
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | English Shrub Rose (Ausverse) |
| Height / Spread | ~1.2–1.5 m × 0.9–1.2 m; can reach 2–3 m with support |
| Flower Size | Large (3.5–5″ / 9–13 cm), ~110 petals |
| Color | Dark crimson → purple-red |
| Fragrance | Medium–strong Old Rose, fruity/oriental |
| Blooming | Repeat from late spring to autumn |
| Hardiness Zones | 5–11 |
| Foliage | Glossy dark green, disease-resistant |