David Austin Desdemona

Desdemona English Shrub Rose

David Austin ‘Desdemona’ is a beautifully refined English shrub rose prized for its pure white, bowl-shaped flowers and exquisite fragrance. Flower buds begin with a soft peachy-pink flush, opening to pristine white blooms that are both elegant and romantic. The petals form a perfect rosette with gently ruffled edges, giving the flowers a delicate, airy look. Its fragrance is rich and complex, blending myrrh with notes of almond blossom, rosewater, and citrus for an unforgettable scent.

This variety forms a rounded, well-balanced shrub with healthy deep green foliage and exceptional mildew and blackspot resistance. Blooming repeatedly from late spring through fall, ‘Desdemona’ provides continuous beauty and freshness in the landscape. Its graceful shape and luminous white flowers make it ideal for borders, foundation plantings, garden paths, and cottage-style beds. Whether used as a standalone specimen or planted in groups for a cloud-like display, it brings an air of purity, sophistication, and gentle fragrance to outdoor spaces.

Care Instructions

Planting

Plant in full sun for best bloom performance. Use fertile, well-draining soil enriched with compost. Space adequately to ensure good airflow.

Watering

Water deeply once or twice a week. Keep soil consistently moist but avoid wetting the foliage. Increase watering during periods of extreme heat.

Pruning

Prune in late winter or early spring. Remove dead or weak wood and shape lightly. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering.

Pest Control

Monitor for aphids and beetles. Treat early with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Ensure good airflow to reduce fungal diseases.

Soil Tips

Use rich, loamy soil. Add compost annually and mulch around the base to conserve moisture and improve soil structure.