In the quiet garden of history, roses have always been the unsung narrators of love and symbols of passion, loss, devotion, and yearning. In the first part of our Love Letter to Roses series, we explored the deep roots of these timeless flowers, their symbolic role in the language of love. Now, we turn to the roses themselves, each a character in its own right, bearing the essence of some of the most unforgettable love stories ever told.

For centuries, roses have been nature’s quiet confidants in the art of love, their petals carrying whispers of affection, longing, and devotion. These remarkable blooms have transcended cultures and eras, weaving their way into poetry, mythology, and cherished traditions. As we reflect on their history, we uncover a story as layered and evocative as the flowers themselves - a tale of beauty, meaning, and connection that has stood the test of time.

As Christmas approaches and we decorate our homes and gardens with festive cheer, it’s a good time to think about the plants that add beauty and history to our outdoor spaces. One rose that stands out is Thomas à Becket^® (Auswinston), a variety that brings a touch of tradition and elegance to any garden.

David Austin's Handbook of Roses will be available this December, and it's packed with delightful details.

As winter settles in, many gardens may seem like they’re taking a well-deserved rest, but there’s still plenty of life and beauty to be found in the colder months. English roses, with their exquisite blooms and rich fragrances, are known for brightening gardens from early summer through autumn, but their allure doesn’t have to fade when winter arrives. By pairing your roses with thoughtful companion plants, you can maintain visual interest and add seasonal charm that will make your garden a delight to behold all year long.

The festive season is a time to celebrate the beauty of nature and bring a touch of the outdoors into your home. One of the most charming ways to add a natural and seasonal aspect to your Christmas décor is by making your own wreath. Rose hips, with their vibrant red and orange hues, are the perfect addition to a festive wreath that captures the essence of an English winter garden.

Thanksgiving is a wonderful opportunity to gather with friends and family, celebrating everything we are grateful for. To bring rustic charm to your Thanksgiving table, consider using rose hips in your décor. These vibrant, berry-like fruits add a seasonal touch and symbolise abundance and gratitude, making them perfect for this special holiday. If you’re lucky enough to still have roses in bloom, you can add a few of these flowers alongside the rose hips for a fragrant finishing touch to your arrangements.

The Eustacia Vye (Ausegdon) rose, introduced in 2019, is a truly beautiful and unique addition to any garden. With soft, glowing apricot-pink blooms, each flower is full of ruffled petals that gradually open into full rosettes. As the blooms mature, its colour fades from rich apricot to paler tones, adding a sense of delicate beauty. Held on striking, red-tinged stems, this rose has a strong, fruity fragrance that fills the air.

Winter brings a time of rest and quiet beauty in the garden, and David Austin English Roses are no exception. While these exquisite plants are hardy and resilient, they thrive with thoughtful care during the colder months. Whether your garden faces harsh frosts or milder seasonal changes, this guide will ensure your English Roses are well-prepared to burst into leaf come spring.

With Christmas around the corner, many of us are looking to find that special gift that will bring warmth and joy to those we love. If you have a gardening enthusiast in your life, why not give them something that truly resonates with their passion for nature?

s autumn settles in and leaves drift to the ground, your garden embraces the season’s quiet beauty. While many plants wind down, roses continue to add their charm, through the vibrant colours of their rose hips. These small, jewel-like fruits bring lively splashes of red, orange, and even purple, creating a striking contrast against bare stems and adding rich colour to your autumn landscape.

Named in honour of the late Queen Elizabeth II, Elizabeth^® (Ausmajesty) embodies grace and majesty in the garden, much like its royal namesake. This rose not only provides beauty but also serves as a lasting tribute to the Queen's enduring legacy.