About the name
Name. 'Roald Dahl' — named after Roald Dahl (1916–1990), the British children's author of 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory', 'Matilda', 'James and the Giant Peach' and 'The BFG' (Big Friendly Giant). Introduced in 2016 for the 100th anniversary of the author's birth. The colour is a direct allusion to 'James and the Giant Peach' (1961, Dahl) — the hero travels in a giant peach. The name was approved by the writer's widow, Liccy Dahl.
Breeding. Bred by David C. H. Austin Sr. at David Austin Roses (Albrighton, UK). Code AUSowlish, US Patent PP29,927. Bred in 2008–2009 from about 96 000 seedlings (a characteristic figure for the scale of Austin breeding). Introduced 2016. Parentage not disclosed (a trade secret); according to Austin press releases, genetic influences include 'Comte de Champagne', 'The Lark Ascending' and 'Jude the Obscure'.
Significance. Austin's 'Best For Health' — one of the most black-spot-resistant varieties. £100 000 was raised for Roald Dahl's Marvellous Children's Charity from sales of the variety — a charitable story, rare for roses. The literary narrative makes the variety recognisable to a wider public (not just rose enthusiasts), especially to gardeners with children. Almost thornless — a distinctive trait, rare for shrub roses; good for family gardens. No major official awards (RHS AGM, ADR), but it has the internal Austin-branded distinctions 'Best For Health' and 'Best For Flowering'.