Thomas à Becket
Thomas à Becket is a distinctive and unique rose variety that sets itself apart from the traditional English Roses. This captivating rose exhibits characteristics more akin to the Species Roses, displaying a natural and shrubby growth habit. Its striking crimson-red blooms add vibrant color to any garden, creating a visual spectacle that commands attention.
The individual flowers of Thomas à Becket are shallowly cupped, opening into informal rosettes of rich crimson-red petals. As the flowers age gracefully, the petals gently reflex, adding to their allure. Held in medium-sized heads, the blooms elegantly nod on the stems, giving the plant a sense of charm and grace. Adding to its allure is the delightful Old Rose fragrance with a strong lemon zest character, infusing the air with a refreshing and nostalgic aroma.
This rose variety forms a strong and informal shrub, enhancing its natural appeal. Bred by the renowned David Austin and introduced in 2013, Thomas à Becket is a testament to the continuous innovation and creativity in rose breeding.
Characteristics:
– Colour: Crimson-red
– Flowering: Repeat Flowering
– Fragrance: Medium, Old Rose
– Bloom Size: Large
– Family: English Shrub Rose
– Size: Large Shrub (Height: 140cm, Width: 140cm)
– Breeder: David Austin
– Year of Introduction: 2013
Ideal For:
– Mixed Border: Thomas à Becket’s distinctive crimson-red blooms create a striking contrast when combined with other flowers in mixed borders, adding depth and drama to the garden landscape.
– Rose Hedges: With its strong and informal growth habit, this rose variety is well-suited for creating captivating rose hedges that form enchanting living boundaries.
– Rose Border: As a Large Shrub Rose, Thomas à Becket thrives when planted alongside other roses, forming a visually stunning and fragrant rose border.
Growing Conditions:
Thomas à Becket adapts well to various growing conditions, making it a versatile choice for gardens. It thrives when planted in locations facing east, south, or west, allowing gardeners the flexibility to choose the best spot for optimal growth. This resilient rose variety thrives in all soil types, thriving in both clay and sandy soils alike. To ensure its success, provide Thomas à Becket with full sunlight, allowing it to bask in the warmth of the sun’s rays.
Origin of Name:
The name “Thomas à Becket” pays tribute to the iconic Canterbury Cathedral. As requested, this rose was named in honor of the historic cathedral, adding a touch of reverence and significance to this already remarkable rose variety.
Thomas à Becket is a captivating English Shrub Rose that embraces its unique character, standing apart from the traditional Old Roses. With its striking crimson-red blooms and delightful fragrance, this rose variety adds a touch of elegance and charm to any garden setting. Whether planted in mixed borders, rose hedges, or rose borders, Thomas à Becket will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression, just as its namesake cathedral has done throughout history.
