The David Austin nursery has been breeding English roses for decades, the roses often named after literary characters, as here, Shakespeare’s heroine from Othello. Pure as the driven snow and wonderfully scented, this rose superbly reflects Desdemona who, despite her honesty and fidelity, was overwhelmed by fate, antagonistic Iago, and her husband, Othello’s, jealousy.

• English shrub rose grown for flowers and scent
• Flowering period: repeat, from late spring to first frost
• Fully hardy
• 'Desdemona' (Auskindling)
• Roses may either arrive in bloom or pruned appropriately for the season

• Classic plant for herbaceous border, small gardens, and containers
• Enriched, well-drained soil
• Any aspect
• Full sun or partial shade
• Exposed or sheltered

Dig a hole larger than the root ball and loosen surrounding soil, sprinkle with Mycorrhizal Fungi to promote root growth, position rose, infill and water well. Deadhead spent blooms to promote new buds. Please see our Rose pruning guide - Shrub rose

Fragrant, strong old rose scent with hints of almond blossom and lemon zest