Charlotte Rose – A Fragrant Yellow Beauty for Every Garden

When talking about classic English roses filled with romance, elegance, and a nostalgic scent, the Charlotte Rose always sits among the most beloved. Bred by David Austin in the UK and launched in 1994, Charlotte Rose (also known as Elgin Festival or AUSpoly) represents a refined blend of beauty, fragrance, and graceful growth. With its soft yellow blooms and strong scent, this variety has become a favorite for gardeners who love traditional English charm.

A Color Story Only Charlotte Rose Can Offer

The color transitions of Charlotte Rose are part of what makes it magical. Buds begin as warm yellow and gently fade toward a softer lemon tone at the center, with outer petals gradually turning cream or even nearly white as the flower fully opens. Each bloom is densely packed with around 100 petals, creating a full, double flower reminiscent of old garden roses.

The bloom size typically ranges from 8–12 cm, giving it a presence that stands out in both garden beds and floral arrangements. Although the flowers are spectacular, they tend to be short-lived in very hot climates—a natural trait of many yellow English roses. Planting the Charlotte Rose in partial shade during summer months helps preserve both color and form.

Fragrance That Defines the Charlotte Rose

One of the biggest reasons gardeners fall in love with the Charlotte Rose is its strong, delightful fragrance. The scent is rich and classic, carrying the traditional charm that David Austin roses are known for. Whether planted along a garden path or near outdoor seating, the aroma easily fills the air—an irresistible highlight for any rose lover.

Growth Habit & Garden Performance

Charlotte Rose grows as a large, upright shrub, reaching around 180 cm in height and spreading to approximately 150 cm. Its branching stems hold bright, light green foliage that stays quite healthy through the seasons. Compared with other yellow Austin roses—especially Golden Celebration—the Charlotte Rose has notably better disease resistance, making it easier to maintain in both small home gardens and professional landscapes.

Heat & Climate Considerations

While Charlotte Rose can thrive in many climates, it performs best in mild to warm regions where summers are not extremely harsh. High temperatures can shorten the bloom’s lifespan, so gardeners in hot climates are encouraged to provide partial shade, especially during peak summer sun. This helps maintain both bloom quality and color intensity.

Why the Charlotte Rose Belongs in Every Garden

If you're searching for an English rose variety that offers soft elegance, strong fragrance, and reliable garden performance, the Charlotte Rose is an outstanding choice. Its gentle yellow palette works beautifully in cottage gardens, mixed borders, and romantic landscape designs. Whether used as a feature shrub or planted in groups for a glowing yellow display, Charlotte Rose brings a timeless charm that never goes out of style.