Each of David Austin’s English Roses is unique, but ‘The King’s Rose’ is particularly special. 12 years in the making, this rose is their first striped variety, created in support of The King’s Foundation to honour a monarch whose lifelong dedication to nature and horticulture has truly inspired us. The RHS Chelsea Flower Show holds a special significance to the David Austin family; it’s where David C. H. Austin first showcased his award-winning roses in 1982. Since then, unveiling a new variety at this event has become a cherished tradition for them. “It feels only fitting to introduce such a distinguished rose at Chelsea,” — David J.C. Austin.

In the 1990s, David C. H. Austin had a memorable meeting with HRH The Prince of Wales at the Chelsea Flower Show. During their conversation, they discovered that they had grown Ferdinand Pichard, a distinctive striped rose variety, as the first rose in their gardens. This shared memory left a lasting impression on David. Years later, when a newly bred rose bloomed for the first time, David was captivated by its beauty. The rose featured striped, semidouble blooms that reminded him of his conversation with the Prince. He instantly knew this rose should be dedicated to His Majesty The King, as a tribute to the King’s lifelong commitment to nature and the environment through The King’s Foundation.