Rose Darcey (AUSCHARIOT): A Cut Rose by David Austin That Dances Through Shades

I'm thrilled to introduce you to Rose Darcey (AUSCHARIOT), a cut rose variety that embodies the artistry and innovation of modern rose breeding. This enchanting bloom, with its evolving palette and graceful form, offers both florists and rose enthusiasts a spectacle of nature's ingenuity.

A Rose is Born

Invented by David Austin in Wolverhampton, UK, in 2010, Rose Darcey (AUSCHARIOT) is a testament to the breeder's commitment to beauty and practicality. Patented as 'AUSchariot', this shrub rose was specifically developed for the cut flower market, promising vibrant crimson buds that unfurl into deep red, many-petalled blooms with a light, fruity fragrance and impressive vase life.

The rose's parentage is a closely guarded secret, originating from the cross-pollination of two unnamed, unpatented Rosa hybrida varieties. This mysterious lineage adds to Darcey's allure, making it a true original in the world of cut roses.

Like all David Austin roses, Darcey is protected by a patent, specifically USPP22206P2. For further details, you can search for this patent number on the Google Patents platform.

Colour: A Chromatic Journey

One of Darcey's most captivating features is its transformative color palette. The journey begins with bright magenta buds (RHS61A), which open to reveal a rich raspberry red. As the bloom matures, it develops velvety purple tones (RHS60B), creating a mesmerizing display of color evolution.

This chameleon-like quality makes Darcey an excellent choice for arrangements that are meant to evolve over time, offering viewers a new experience with each passing day.

Shape: Form and Structure

Darcey's blooms are generous, averaging 10cm in diameter when fully open. The flower's architecture is equally impressive, starting as a cupped form with outer petals forming a perfect ring around an inner cup. As it matures, the bloom gradually opens into a classic rosette shape, with petals gracefully curling back to reveal a cluster of golden stamens at its heart.

With a petal count of 125-140, Darcey offers a fullness that is both luxurious and reminiscent of old garden roses, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a more romantic, nostalgic aesthetic.

Fragrance Notes

While not overpowering, Darcey's scent is a delightful complement to its visual appeal. The warm, fruity tea fragrance, touched with notes of sandalwood, adds depth to the sensory experience without overwhelming the space. This makes Darcey an excellent choice for intimate table settings or personal bouquets where a subtle aroma is desired.

VAse Life: Practical Considerations for Florists

Darcey stands out in the cut flower market for its exceptional vase life of at least seven days, making it one of the longest-lasting David Austin cut roses available. This longevity is a boon for both florists and consumers, ensuring arrangements maintain their beauty well beyond the event they were designed for.

The rose's attractive matte green foliage, characteristic of old roses, provides an excellent backdrop to the evolving blooms, adding to its overall appeal in arrangements.

A Note on Garden Cultivation

It's important to note that Rose Darcey (AUSCHARIOT) is bred specifically for the cut flower trade and is not available as a garden variety. Its extra-long stems, while ideal for commercial cutting, would be impractical in a home garden setting. However, rose enthusiasts needn't despair – the similarly named DARCEY BUSSELL offers comparable beauty with a more garden-friendly growth habit.

In conclusion, Rose Darcey (AUSCHARIOT) represents the pinnacle of rose breeding for the cut flower industry. Its evolving colors, classic form, subtle fragrance, and impressive vase life make it a standout choice for florists and flower lovers alike. Whether gracing a bridal bouquet or taking center stage in a dining room arrangement, Darcey promises to captivate and delight, proving that even in the world of cut flowers, a rose can still surprise and enchant.

Details – Rose Darcey

Other names: AUSchariot, Auschariot
Shape: Rosette
Colour: Raspberry red
Petal Count: 125 - 140 petals
Diameter : 10-12 cm
Fragrance: Light fruity tea
Vase Life: 5-7 days
Breeder: David Austin