David Austin Darcey Bussell

SKU: 5056

$39.99

David Austin ‘Darcey Bussell’ is a compact shrub rose with rich crimson blooms that deepen to purple-red. Highly fragrant and free-flowering, it offers excellent disease resistance and is ideal for borders, containers, and small garden spaces.

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Rosa Darcey Bussell

Rosa 'Ausdecorum'

David Austin ‘Darcey Bussell’ is a stunning English shrub rose celebrated for its deep, velvety crimson blooms and refined form. One of the most richly colored roses in the David Austin collection, it opens with vibrant ruby-red petals that gradually deepen to a dramatic purple-red as the flowers mature. The rosette-shaped blooms appear in generous clusters throughout the growing season, carrying a pleasantly fruity fragrance with hints of green apple and raspberry.

Compact and tidy in habit, ‘Darcey Bussell’ is perfect for smaller landscapes, front garden borders, foundation plantings, and large containers. Its dense foliage and excellent disease resistance ensure reliability and low maintenance, while its repeat-flowering nature keeps the plant in nearly constant bloom from late spring through fall. Whether used as a focal point or integrated into mixed plantings, this rose adds richness, elegance, and a touch of drama to any garden setting.

Care Instructions

Planting

Plant in full sun (6+ hours). Choose fertile, well-draining soil enriched with compost. Space to allow airflow and plant slightly deeper than nursery level.

Watering

Water deeply once or twice weekly. Direct water to the soil, not foliage, to reduce disease risk. Keep soil consistently moist during hot weather.

Pruning

Prune in late winter or early spring. Remove dead or weak stems, shape lightly, and deadhead spent blooms to encourage continual flowering.

Pest Control

Watch for aphids, beetles, and thrips. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap if needed. Maintain airflow to prevent blackspot and mildew.

Soil Tips

Loamy, nutrient-rich soil is ideal. Add compost yearly and mulch to retain moisture and regulate temperature.

Plant TypeRoses, Shrubs
Hardiness Zone(s)5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
ExposureFull Sun
Season of InterestSpring, Summer
Plant Height2' - 4' (ft)
Plant Spread1' - 2' (ft)
Spacing2' - 3' (ft)
Water NeedsAverage
Maintenance LevelAverage
Soil TypeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil PHAlkaline, Acidic, Neutral
Soil DrainageMoist but Well Drained, Well-Drained
Bloom ColorRed
Foliage ColorGreen
CharacteristicsFragrant, Plant of Merit, Showy
AttractsButterflies
Garden UsesHedges and Screens, Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers

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