David Austin Roses for the South: Top English Roses for Heat and Humidity

Cyndi Lauderdale, director of Wilson Botanical Gardens (NC), tested dozens of David Austin English roses in the hot, humid Southeast. Her ratings, published in The American Nurseryman, guide Southern gardeners to the best performers.

A+ (Outstanding – Disease-Free, Vigorous)

Abraham Darby®, Ambridge Rose, Benjamin Britten, Charlotte, Cottage Rose, Graham Thomas® (“foliage never shows disease”), Heritage®, Mary Rose® (“very resistant to mildew”), Tess of the d’Urbervilles, Winchester Cathedral.

A (Excellent – Minor Disease Possible)

English Garden®, Sharifa Asma, Spirit of Freedom (“very disease resistant”), Tamora (“virtually disease-free”), The Prince.

B (Good – Need Spraying for Insects/Diseases)

Fisherman’s Friend, Glamis Castle, Pat Austin, The Dark Lady (“struggles to start”).

Failures in Lauderdale’s Garden

Bibi Mazoon™ (grows but no flowers), Fair Bianca®, Grace.

Note: Performance varies by microclimate; ‘Bibi Mazoon’ thrives at Wilson Botanical Gardens but failed in Lauderdale’s home garden.