Barbara Austin
Best fragrant shrub for gardeners seeking classic charm in mixed borders.
The Barbara Austin English Shrub Rose, named for David Austin Senior's sister, offers classic Old Rose charm with delicate, rosette-shaped blush pink blooms. It boasts a strong, delightful fragrance blending Old Rose and lilac notes, and provides repeat flowering throughout the season. This variety forms a gradually arching shrub habit, making it a beautiful addition to mixed or rose borders. It thrives in full sunlight and is suitable for various soil types, ideal for East, South, or West-facing gardens.
$40.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
34
/ 2598
#34 in Bushes & Shrubs
Price vs Category Average
+2%
Above average
Colour
Blush Pink
/ Blush Pink
Who it's for
- Gardeners prioritizing aromatic flowers for sensory appeal
- Landscapers seeking vibrant, sun-resistant focal points
- Homeowners wanting continuous seasonal color
Who should skip it
- Gardeners in humid regions avoiding intensive maintenance
- Perfectionists preferring upright, sturdy bloom stems
- Arrangers needing long-lasting cut flowers
Performance breakdown
Fragrance potency
A sophisticated blend of Old Rose and lilac fills the garden.
Bloom consistency
Reliable repeat flowering ensures color throughout the entire summer season.
Landscape versatility
The arching habit fits perfectly into mixed borders or standalone displays.
Environmental adaptability
Thrives across a wide range of zones and soil conditions.
Aesthetic appeal
Classic rosette-shaped blooms deliver timeless, elegant Old Rose charm.
Maintenance ease
Moderate growth rate requires standard care for optimal shrub health.
Key Specs
Colour
Blush Pink
Flowering
Repeat Flowering
Fragrance
Strong, Old Rose
Bloom Size
Medium
Family
English Shrub Rose
Size
Medium Shrub
Height
3 1/2ft
Width
3ft
Features
- Delicate blush pink rosette blooms
- Strong Old Rose and lilac fragrance
- Repeat flowering for extended beauty
- Arching shrub habit
- Suitable for various soil types
- Ideal for borders
- 5-year guarantee included
What customers say
Customers deeply cherish the 'Barbara Austin' rose, primarily for its intense, complex Old Rose fragrance, often calling it a collection standout. The vibrant magenta pink coloration provides a dramatic garden focal point. This variety is noted for being a vigorous shrub with reliable repeat flowering across the season, offering consistent beauty. While some users in humid areas report moderate susceptibility to common fungal issues requiring care, the consensus is that the exceptional quality and unparalleled scent justify the premium price. Gardeners view this rose as a high value, representing David Austin's breeding excellence.
Know before you buy
This variety reaches a mature height of approximately 3.5 feet and a width of 3 feet, forming a graceful, arching shrub.
Yes, the Barbara Austin is a repeat-flowering variety, meaning it will produce waves of blush pink blooms throughout the summer months.
The blooms offer a strong, classic fragrance that blends traditional Old Rose notes with subtle hints of lilac.
For best results, plant this rose in a location that receives full sun. It is adaptable to various soil types, provided the soil is well-drained.
Yes, its arching shrub habit makes it an excellent choice for mixed or rose borders, where its delicate rosette blooms can complement other perennials.
This variety is versatile and suitable for growing in zones 5 through 11, covering a wide range of climates.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$40