The Generous Gardener

Where to plant. On a large arch or pergola as a showy entrance; on a house wall; beside a bench or terrace for its exceptional fragrance; beside paths — thanks to the absence of thorns it is safe to walk past; as a “royal” climber in the garden (planted at Buckingham Palace).

Climate. All of Ukraine without winter protection (USDA 4-11 — one of the most cold-hardy Austin climbers); tolerates summer heat well.

Care. Full sun; high resistance 4.5/5 — minimal prevention; feed 2–3× per season; prune weak shoots in spring and leave the main framework canes for 3–5 years.

Name. “The Generous Gardener”, meaning “the generous gardener”. Named after The National Gardens Scheme (NGS), a British charity that opens private gardens to the public and gives the proceeds to good causes (nursing, hospices). David Austin supports the NGS, and the variety was released in honour of this initiative. The name reflects the spirit of “generosity” of private gardeners, who share the beauty of their gardens for good causes. Breeder: bred by David Austin at David Austin Roses (Albrighton, Shropshire, UK). Code AUSdrawn. Introduced 2002. Parentage: 'Sharifa Asma' (Austin) × unnamed seedling — partially disclosed.

Significance. TOP-1 among Austin climbers in the opinion of many gardeners and of the RHS. RHS Award of Garden Merit — confirmed. The Hague Gold Certificate 2010 — gold for climbers at the Hague Rose Trials. The Hague Fragrance Award 2006. Gifu Most Fragrant Rose / Rose Hills Award 2005. Gifu Bronze Medal 2005. PLANTED IN THE GARDEN OF BUCKINGHAM PALACE — a rare distinction among modern roses. A rare trio of fragrances — Old Rose + musk + myrrh in one variety; few other climbers in the world have such a powerful and complex fragrance. Almost thornless — an extra advantage in care, ideal for arches beside paths. USDA 4-11 — one of the most cold-hardy Austin climbers. The water-lily form with visible stamens is a rarity among English Austins (usually a rosette form).