David Austin The Poet’s Wife

The Poet's Wife English Shrub Rose

The Poet’s Wife is a radiant English shrub rose bred by David Austin, admired for its rich yellow blooms that hold their color exceptionally well throughout the season. The flowers are full, deeply cupped, and packed with softly ruffled petals that exude a strong citrus fragrance, one of the most notable features of this variety. Its blooms appear generously from late spring through fall, making it a dependable choice for gardeners who want long-lasting color paired with unforgettable scent.

This rose forms a rounded, compact shrub with tidy, glossy foliage that enhances its bright flowers. Its balanced shape makes it ideal for mixed borders, rose beds, foundation plantings, or as a fragrant focal point near pathways or seating areas. Highly regarded for its health and vigor, The Poet’s Wife brings warmth and brightness to any garden while maintaining an elegant, classic presence. Its hardiness and reliable repeat blooming ensure that it remains one of the standout yellow varieties in David Austin’s collection.

Care Instructions

Planting

Choose a sunny location with at least 6 hours of direct light. Enrich the planting hole with compost or well-rotted manure and ensure good drainage.

Watering

Water deeply once or twice weekly during establishment. Maintain consistent moisture during hot weather, avoiding overhead watering when possible.

Pruning

Prune in early spring by removing dead or weak stems. Shape the plant by reducing its height by one-third to encourage strong new growth and prolific blooms.

Pest Control

Monitor for aphids, blackspot, and mildew. Improve airflow, remove affected foliage, and apply organic treatments like neem oil if needed.

Soil Tips

Prefers fertile, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0). Add organic matter annually to support vigorous growth.