Pros and Cons of the Ambridge Rose

Summary:

The Ambridge rose, also known as Ambridge or Ambridge Amabie, is a large-flowered rose variety bred by the renowned English breeder David Austin. With its apricot-pink, bun-shaped blooms measuring 7–10 cm and a strong myrrh fragrance, this rose boasts excellent repeat flowering, long blooming periods, and prolific clusters of blossoms. In this blog, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of the Ambridge rose in detail.

Advantages of the Ambridge Rose

1. Beautiful Flower Color

The Ambridge rose’s blooms are a delicate apricot-pink. When they first open, the flowers may appear more orange-toned, gradually transitioning to pink as they mature. In higher temperatures, the color tends to fade slightly, leaning toward pale pink or even white, adding subtle variations to its beauty.

2. Charming Flower Form

The flower’s bun-shaped form is similar to popular varieties like Lady Charlotte, Wollerton Old Hall, and Jude the Obscure. Measuring 7–10 cm in diameter, the blooms feature moderately packed petals with a thin, delicate texture, giving them a refined and elegant appearance.

3. Strong Myrrh Fragrance

One of the most distinctive features of the Ambridge rose is its powerful myrrh scent. This unique, slightly unusual fragrance appeals to those who enjoy a more antique or aromatic quality in their garden but might not suit everyone due to its intensity.

4. Prolific Flowering

The Ambridge rose is known for its cluster blooms, typically opening 5–7 flowers per stem. In optimal conditions, some clusters can produce over 10 flowers, creating a dramatic and abundant display in the garden.

5. Compact Growth Habit

This medium-sized shrub rose grows to about 80–100 cm in height and 60–90 cm in width, making it ideal for small gardens or as part of mixed borders. Its bushy, well-branched habit provides excellent coverage.

6. High Tolerance and Low Maintenance

The Ambridge rose is heat- and shade-tolerant, making it adaptable to a range of climates. It also has good self-cleaning blooms and strong disease resistance, making it relatively easy to care for compared to other varieties.

Disadvantages of the Ambridge Rose

1. Fragile Petal Texture

The petals of the Ambridge rose are thinner and more delicate compared to other varieties, making them more susceptible to damage from heavy rain or harsh winds. This can reduce its visual appeal in unfavorable weather.

2. Specific Fragrance Preference

While its strong myrrh scent is loved by many, it can be polarizing. Gardeners who prefer classic floral or fruity rose fragrances might find it less appealing.

3. Moderate Flower Density

Although the blooms are beautiful, the petal count is not as high as some of David Austin’s fuller, more densely petaled roses. This may not meet the expectations of those seeking a lush, densely-packed bloom appearance.

4. Fading Colors in High Temperatures

The rose’s color tends to fade to lighter shades in hot climates, which might be disappointing for those hoping for consistent, vibrant hues throughout the season.

Conclusion

The Ambridge rose is a stunning and versatile variety, celebrated for its charming apricot-pink blooms, strong myrrh fragrance, and excellent adaptability. While its delicate petals and unique scent may not appeal to everyone, its ease of care, prolific flowering, and compact growth make it a fantastic choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.