English rose
Abraham Darby X Unknown seedling
A magnificent rose in all respect and a wonderful example of the old Austin varieties.
It's parent Abraham Darby dislikes rain and is a blackspot and rust martyr but Spirit of freedom can stand rain and is much more healthy.
I never grew this specific variety but I bought it for my rose aunty back in 2004. Today, it's still one of her treasured beauties as it grows on an 2,50 meters obelisk in full sun. We prune it lightly so never more than 1/3 is removed.
It's a tall rose and it def needs support. Its much taller than wide so approx 250X100 cm or 8X4 feet. Foliage is light green and healthy. The buds appear in small clusters and open into big, very full blooms. First cupped like Constance Spry or a Centifolia but later they open up more. A delicious, almost Bourbon, fragrance adds to their beauty.
Spirit of freedom is a good reblooming rose and can deliver up to three flushes. Zone 6b to 9b. Rain and partial shade tolerant. They do burn in very hot sun.
I must admit that it's a rose I would buy for in my Tea rose garden because she looks like my Bourbon roses such as Coup d'Hebé.
A very recommended DA rose
