John Clare Rose

My very first John Clare rose was rescued from the bargain bin at a local nursery. I'm so glad I did! The pink is deep yet soft, and seems to glow - especially in setting and rising sun.

John Clare could lead a revival for the colour pink, particularly in roses. He would look amazing next rich purple plant foliage- for example a bronze-purple Phormium (flax).

Named after a Poet

John Clare is a British poet. I wonder how he would describe this David Austin rose which is named after him? The flower blooms have a translucent sheen which makes their pink look deeper and darker than it really is. Perhaps it is a real man's pink? Hmm...

And their slightly cupped shape opens delightfully, as long as there's no wind to blow the petals off. One thing is for certain - John Clare would be able to describe his rose much more eloquently than I can!

Update - 2011

I'm pleased to report that I now have several John Clare roses growing in different garden areas, and I love them all. Perhaps the best thing in their favour is their flowering time. John Clare is always the very last rose in my garden to bloom, often well into winter. Dear man!