Sophy's Rose English Shrub Rose

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

2-3 Feet

Mature Spread

2-3 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 9

Broad, flat rosettes in saturated crimson-pink give Sophy’s Rose English Shrub Rose a depth of color rarely seen in compact English varieties. Rosa 'Auslot' forms an upright, bushy shrub about 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide, carrying large 3½ to 4-inch blooms packed with around 80 petals. The petals graduate from small at the center to generously rounded on the outside, creating a layered, almost architectural flower. Unlike taller red Austins that sprawl, this one stays neatly vertical and easy to place. We often suggest it when gardeners want a rich red-pink focal point that won’t overpower a smaller border.

David Austin introduced Sophy’s Rose in 1997 and named it after the daughter of the founder of the Dyslexia Institute. The light tea fragrance is gentle rather than heavy, making it ideal near walkways or seating areas. Repeat flushes carry the show from late spring well into fall, and the elongated matte foliage gives the shrub an airy presence even between bloom cycles. Its moderate size works beautifully in dedicated rose borders, mixed perennial beds, or large patio containers where structure matters as much as color.

Sophy’s Rose English Shrub Rose Care

Plant in full sun for strongest bloom production, allowing at least six hours of direct light daily. Choose a well-worked garden bed with good drainage, incorporating compost before planting to improve texture. The pH should be near neutral, roughly 6.2 to 7.0. After planting, irrigate deeply to settle the roots, then water when the upper few inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Feed in early spring with a balanced granular rose fertilizer and repeat after the first major flush to support continued flowering. Good air movement around the plant helps maintain healthy foliage.

Prune in late winter or very early spring, cutting back stems to outward-facing buds to preserve the upright shape. Remove any winter-damaged or weak growth at the same time. During the season, clip faded blooms just above a strong leaf set to encourage quicker rebloom. In colder regions, provide protection from late spring freezes if new growth has emerged.

Sophy’s Rose English Shrub Rose Spacing

Space plants about 3 feet apart on center so each shrub keeps its clean, vertical outline. For containers, select a pot at least 18 inches wide and equally deep to anchor the root system. Combine with foamflower, blue campanula, and ornamental grasses to highlight the structured bloom form without competing for attention.

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