Rose Glastonbury

‘Glastonbury’ is a classic English shrub rose with large, old-fashioned rosette blooms in a rich cherry-red with purplish tones at the petal edges, often set against a pale yellow inner base. The variety is celebrated for a strong, old-rose fragrance that is reminiscent of Damask and Old roses. A compact shrub with gracefully arching canes, ‘Glastonbury’ typically grows tall first and later forms a rather rounded form. Its ornamental appeal lies in the generous clusters of intensely scented, richly colored blooms and the glossy dark foliage that provides an elegant backdrop. Gardeners prize this cultivar for its combination of vivid flower color and classic perfume in a moderately sized shrub, making it a memorable feature in rose gardens.

DESCRIPTION OF THE VARIETY

‘Glastonbury’ belongs to the early English Shrub Roses group – Austin’s signature class combining the form and fragrance of old roses with modern repeat-flowering habits. It is distinguished by its unusually rich magenta-red blooms that age to a purple-tinged hue. Unlike some newer repeat flowering Austins, ‘Glastonbury’ tends to bloom in flushes with a strong first flush and only sporadic repeat flowering later in summer. The flowers are borne mostly singly or in small clusters on sturdy stems. In form they are full and cupped, resembling antique Gallica-style rosettes. This variety remains relevant in modern gardens as a link to early English-rose breeding; it embodies Austin’s early goal of achieving intense color and perfume. Though it has largely been surpassed by later varieties with improved vigor or rebloom, ‘Glastonbury’ retains a niche for collectors and gardeners who value its unique hue and very classic fragrance. The plant is vigorous and fairly winter-hardy, typically equitable for growing in climates similar to USDA Zones 5b - 10b, and its tidy habit and heavy flowering make it attractive in mixed borders or as a low hedge.

FLOWERING

‘Glastonbury’ produces a profuse first main bloom in late spring to early summer. After the initial flush, it produces an occasional second flush in mid- to late summer if well cared for, though it is not considered a well-repeated flowering rose. The flowering cycle typically begins in spring, continues into summer, and then dwindles, with just a few reblooms if spent flowers are removed. Overall, it is generally described as “recurrent” but not as free-flowering as many modern English shrub roses.

Flower bud:

The flower buds of ‘Glastonbury’ are medium sized and pointed, often elongated ovals tapering to a sharp tip. The buds carry a dark red or magenta blush to their surface before opening. Each bud is supported by a short, straight peduncle that is usually moderately long and can bear up to three buds in a small cluster. The sepals are leafy-green and closely enwrap the bud; as the bud opens they reflex back in an even manner. The sepals sometimes bear hairs or glands along their edges, a trait common in English shrub roses, and they remain partially visible beneath the opening bloom. The bud opens fairly slowly, with the outer petals unfolding one by one to reveal the inner form of the flower.

Bloom:

The blooms are the marquee feature of ‘Glastonbury’. Each flower is large and very full, blooms are roughly 10 - 12 cm (4 - 5 in) in diameter when fully open, and have a quartered or cupped rosette form. Petals are densely arranged, often with 45 or more petals per bloom, giving a plush cushion-like center.

The outer petals are a deep red-magenta, while the base of the bloom near the center is a pale lemon-yellow, creating a subtle bicolored effect. As the petals age, the red may darken slightly or take on a purplish tone. The flowers are borne mostly singly or in small clusters of 2 to 5 blooms on short stalks. They open from pointed buds into a flat to gently cupped shape, often revealing a modest cluster of golden stamens in the center, but they are mostly hidden by the dense petals. Overall the floral effect is of rich, velvety colour and an Old rose character, with each bloom looking substantial and informal. Clusters of blossoms can be very attractive on the bush, though excessive heat or rain may soften the petal edges.

Petals:

The petals of ‘Glastonbury’ are very numerous, forming very full flowers. Petal edges are generally flat or very slightly undulating, without prominent ruffling. As flowers age, the innermost petals may reflex back to expose more of the flower’s center. Petal color is deepest at the margins and somewhat lighter toward the center; the contrast between the crimson outer petals and the pale-yellow to cream inner petaloids remains visible as the blossom matures. Petal formation is somewhat heavy and overlapping, which helps the bloom hold its form in normal weather. The petals are reasonably durable for a densely formed rose, staying intact on the bush for several days; however, in wet or stormy weather the blooms may become briefly disheveled or ball, which is a common trait for very full roses). As the flower ages the petals fade slightly over time, with the intense red gradually softening to a deeper pinkish-purple hue at maturity.

Fragrance:

‘Glastonbury’ is widely noted for its fragrance. It carries a strong, classic Old rose scent that is rich and complex, comparable to a Damask or classic Gallica perfume. In warm, sunny weather the perfume becomes very powerful and can fill a portion of the garden on a calm morning. Some gardeners find hints of musk or clove in the scent profile. The fragrance may appear slightly less intense in cool or very dry conditions, but even then the rose maintains a notable perfume.

Reproductive parts:

When flowers open fully, a small cluster of yellow stamens and a central stigma column may be visible at the core of the bloom, but these are mostly hidden under the mass of petals. The hips (fruit) of ‘Glastonbury’ are rarely set, as this rose is usually deadheaded to encourage more flowers.

PLANT

‘Glastonbury’ is classified as a Shrub rose and is part of the English Shrub Roses category created by David Austin. The plant has an upright, bushy habit with arching canes. Mature and well-established bushes reach about 100 - 120 cm (3 - 4 ft) in height and a similar spread, forming a rounded mound if left unpruned. In cooler climates it often stays toward the lower end of this range, while in warmer zones it can occasionally reach taller, up to about 130 cm (4.3 ft). The growth vigour is moderate. Canes arise from the base and then arch gracefully; they are of medium thickness. The shrub tends to form a dense growth over time if left to mature, so occasional thinning or rebushing helps maintain an open structure and promotes air circulation.

Rose variety ‘Glastonbury’ prefers full sun and fertile, well-drained soil - typical rose culture. It has not been documented as especially shade-tolerant or drought-hardy; like most Austins it grows best with at least six hours of sun. In cold climates it benefits from a sheltered position or winter mulch. The plant has fair tolerance to wind due to its sturdiness, but heavy pruning is not needed. In overall appearance it has the classic dense shrub form common to English shrub roses, combining a relatively compact shape with abundant blooms.

In terms of pruning, removing spent blooms during flowering will encourage later flush of flowers, and a major pruning is recommended in late winter or early spring to remove any dead wood and shape the bush. Summer pruning (deadheading) is beneficial if repeat blooms are desired. Because ‘Glastonbury’ can be slow to start, young plants may need extra care in the first seasons. If the shrub seems untidy after the main flush, a light trim can neaten the shape. In mixed borders, it complements both soft pastel companions and dark foliage plants, adding a deep red focus and perfume. It is somewhat tolerant of winter frosts and typical upland vigor make it suitable for many temperate gardens.

Foliage:

There is a normal quantity of the foliage on the plants of this rose variety. The leaves of ‘Glastonbury’ are dark green, generally medium-sized, and slightly glossy. Each leaf is typical of shrub roses: compound and pinnate. New foliage often emerges with a subtle bronze or reddish shade before turning to dark green. The leaf surface is smooth and normal, without heavy pubescence. The foliage provides an attractive backdrop to the blooms, with a healthy, rich color. In autumn the leaves may hold color or slowly turn yellow before dropping, as is common with many hybrid roses. Overall the leaf texture appears to be semi-gloss, and the color is a rich emerald that contrasts well with the deep flower color.

Leaflets:

Normal mid-season leaves in the middle of the flowering stem of ‘Glastonbury’ usually have 5 to 7 leaflets, including the terminal leaflet. The leaflets are broadly oval to elliptic in shape with a pointed tip and a finely serrated margin. The veins are subtle and the central vein on each leaflet is slightly raised on the upper side. The petiole (leaf stalk) and rachis (the main central stem of the leaf) are sturdy and can bear small prickles. Leaflet size is moderate for an English shrub rose, typically a few centimeters long, the whole leaf might be approximately 10 - 12 cm long from base to tip. The texture is supple and slightly glossy. The leaflet arrangement is symmetrically opposite and pairs up on each side of the rachis. These are all standard traits of an English shrub rose.

Wood:

The plants of rose variety ‘Glastonbury’ develop canes that are upright at first and then arch outward with age. The overall wood habit is moderately vigorous. Branching is relatively abundant, with new stems emerging from near the base and forming an open-flowered shrub rather than a tall cane. The bark on older wood is smooth and gray-brown, while younger canes show a greenish color. Canes have good strength once mature, supporting heavy flowers. It remains a manageable medium sized bush. The bush tends to form a dense cluster of canes at the base.

Prickles:

The canes of ‘Glastonbury’ bear a moderate number of prickles. The major prickles are medium in size, triangular in cross-section, and can be tipped with a brown or black point. They are distributed mainly along the younger shoots and petioles. Young canes often have bright red-tinged triangular prickles, which then darken with age. On older wood, the main canes have fewer new prickles. The colour of larger prickles is typically brownish or reddish on a green stem background, blending in well once the cane hardens.

Small prickles:

In addition to the larger prickles, there are smaller needle-like prickles and glandular bristles present on the petiole rachis and sepals. These are very fine, almost hairlike, and can often be found on the leaf stalks. They are not usually counted among the main prickles armature. They appear sparse and are often overlooked except on close inspection. These minor prickles do not have significant bearing on the plant’s overall feel or handling. Thus, ‘Glastonbury’ can be handled with modest caution, as it behaves like a normal garden rose in this aspect.

Disease resistance and stress tolerance:

David Austin’s early roses are generally less disease-resistant than the later shrub rose series. ‘Glastonbury’ is moderately disease tolerant and can succumb to black spot and powdery mildew under damp conditions. It tends to hold up reasonably well, but not exceptionally, through mild seasons. In good conditions with air circulation, its dark foliage can stay clean for much of the summer, whereas heavy humidity or poor air flow may lead to some spotting. It shows no special resistance to rust. In dry or hot climates it generally performs best, while in warm, wet summer regions some foliage protection measures, like cleanup or light fungicide, may be needed.

Regarding abiotic stress, ‘Glastonbury’ handles moderate drought by wilting slightly but generally recovering with water. Its wind tolerance is average; the arching canes hold up in breezes but may break in stormy conditions if laden with blooms. Cold hardiness is fairly good - USDA rating is 5b, it is hardy to about –26 °C, which corresponds roughly to RHS H6 rating (hardy to –20 to –15 °C). Gardeners in colder zones (USDA 5 and marginal 4) should give winter mulch and protection. Conversely, in very hot climates (USDA 8–10), afternoon shade helps prevent bloom fade. ‘Glastonbury’ does not excel in disease resistance relative to newer cultivars, but its vigor and easy recovery from pruning keep it a reliable garden plant if maintained with good hygiene.

The name ‘Glastonbury’ refers to the town of Glastonbury in Somerset, England. Glastonbury is famous for its ancient abbey, legendary Holy Thorn, and Arthurian folklore. By naming the rose after this locale, Austin intended to evoke a sense of English tradition and heritage.

There are no records of major awards or honors for ‘Glastonbury’. It did not receive an ADR or similar trial award, and no significant international prizes are documented for this cultivar.

ORIGIN OF THE VARIETY

Rose variety ‘Glastonbury’ was bred and introduced by David C. H. Austin, with the official introduction in 1974. It originated by crossing the seed parent English rose variety "The Knight" with the pollen parent an unnamed seedling, which is likely came from Austin’s early hybridizing stock.

BACKGROUND OF THE VARIETY

Historically, ‘Glastonbury’ represents Austin’s early efforts to expand the color range of English Roses into the red-purple spectrum. It followed shortly after roses like ‘The Knight’ and ‘Chaucer’ in his program. The name continues Austin’s theme of invoking English heritage. In the lineage of English Shrubs, ‘Glastonbury’ later served as a parent for subsequent introductions. For example, the cultivar ‘Wenlock’ was bred from ‘The Knight’ and ‘Glastonbury’. This confirms that Austin valued ‘Glastonbury’ traits (deep color, scent) for further breeding. Over time, newer cultivars with improved disease resistance and reblooming took precedence, but ‘Glastonbury’ remains noted among enthusiasts for its vintage charm.

SUMMARY OF THE VARIETY

Rose ‘Glastonbury’ is a medium sized English shrub rose of historic interest, prized for its intense cherry-red blooms and potent Old rose fragrance. Over time it has been appreciated as a collector’s plant and also for garden use where its classic bloom form and scent can be showcased.This rose variety incorporated the following unique combination of characteristics:

  blooms of deep cherry-red with purple shading in a very full, cupped rosette form;

  exceptionally strong classic Old rose fragrance with spicy, Damask-like notes;

  compact, arching shrub growth with glossy dark foliage;

  reasonable hardiness and fair tolerance of normal garden soils.

This rose can be propagated by standard rose techniques. Hardwood cuttings taken in late winter to early spring will root well in a humid, shaded frame. More commonly, it is propagated by grafting or budding onto vigorous rose rootstock (such as ‘Dr. Huey’) in late winter. Own-root plants are also grown by budding onto their own roots; these can survive as well if offshoots sprout from graft unions. Once established, ‘Glastonbury’ regrows reliably from the crown, so it can be increased by division of mature plants in spring.

COMPARISON WITH PARENTS

When compared with the seed parent ‘The Knight’, also had deep crimson blooms and strong Old rose fragrance, ‘Glastonbury’ tends to be slightly larger in stature and its color shows a warmer red with more purple hue at the edges. ‘The Knight’, by contrast, produced a more matte crimson and remained a smaller bush, about 60 - 90 cm, with very densely folded blooms. ‘Glastonbury’ inherited the intense scent but is perhaps marginally more vigorous and robust in growth.

Since the pollen parent is unnamed, further comparison is conjectural.

COMPARISON WITH THE CLOSEST COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE CULTIVAR

A similar commercially available English-shrub rose might be David Austin’s ‘Munstead Wood’ (2007). Both have rich crimson blooms and strong Old rose fragrances. However, ‘Munstead Wood’ is slightly smaller, typically around 80 - 90 cm tall, and more continuously flowering, with velvety deep red coloration throughout. By contrast, ‘Glastonbury’ has a somewhat taller, arching habit and its blooms are a cherry-red fading to purple, with only occasional repeat bloom. ‘Munstead Wood’ has been bred for higher disease resistance, whereas ‘Glastonbury’ is more like older shrubs in hardiness but more prone to black spot. Gardeners seeking the quintessential early-Austin red should note that ‘Glastonbury’ offers a more open rosette form and pastel center on each bloom, while ‘Munstead Wood’ is darker, more richly shaped, and produces more flowers over the season. ‘Glastonbury’ might be chosen for its historic character and fragrance, whereas ‘Munstead Wood’ serves those who want a similar color with better rain tolerance and repeat flowering.

USDA 5

USDA Zone 5 - hardiness guide