Lady Emma Hamilton

Full Description:

Lady Emma Hamilton brings a remarkable sense of movement to the garden. Deep crimson buds touched with orange gradually unfold into luminous tangerine flowers, softly highlighted with yellow, so the plant appears to change colour as each bloom develops.

Introduced by David Austin in 2005, this distinctive English rose was named after Lady Emma Hamilton, remembered for her beauty, charisma and dramatic life. The rose carries the same expressive character, combining rich colour with one of the most memorable fruity fragrances in the David Austin collection.

Its strong perfume blends notes of pear, grape and citrus, making Lady Emma Hamilton especially rewarding near a terrace, entrance, pathway or seating area. The fragrance is equally impressive indoors, where the cut flowers remain attractive for approximately five days.

Flowering begins in May and continues in repeated flushes until the first frost. The warm blooms stand out beautifully against dark green foliage, while the compact, rounded plant reaches approximately 1 metre in height.

Awarded the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit, Lady Emma Hamilton combines traditional English rose beauty with proven garden performance. It is an excellent choice for borders, rose beds, mixed perennial planting and large containers.

Frequently asked questions:

Why is Lady Emma Hamilton considered one of David Austin’s most distinctive roses?
It combines dramatic colour changes, a powerful fruity fragrance and reliable repeat flowering in a compact, manageable plant.

How does the flower colour change?
The buds begin as dark crimson with orange tones before opening into rich tangerine-orange flowers highlighted with yellow.

How strong is the fragrance?
The fragrance is strong and richly fruity, with distinctive notes of pear, grape and citrus. It is best appreciated when the rose is planted near a frequently used area.

Does Lady Emma Hamilton flower repeatedly?
Yes. It blooms in successive flushes from May until the first frost, providing colour and fragrance throughout the growing season.

How large does the plant become?
It typically reaches approximately 1 metre in height and develops a compact, rounded habit.

Is it suitable for a smaller garden?
Yes. Its compact size makes it suitable for small and medium-sized gardens, provided it receives enough sunlight and space for air circulation.

Can Lady Emma Hamilton be grown in a container?
Yes. It can grow successfully in a large, deep container with good drainage, quality compost and regular watering and feeding.

Can the flowers be used in bouquets?
Yes. Their warm colouring and strong fragrance make them excellent for floral arrangements, and the cut flowers generally last around five days.

What plants combine well with Lady Emma Hamilton?
Cream, pale apricot, lavender, blue salvia and silver foliage complement its glowing orange tones without competing with the flowers.

Is Lady Emma Hamilton suitable for beginners?
Yes. Its compact habit, repeat flowering and recognised garden performance make it a reassuring choice for gardeners who want a highly fragrant English rose.

What does the rose look like on delivery?
Its appearance depends on the delivery season and natural stage of growth. For examples and explanations, see What roses look like on delivery →.

What should I do after planting?
Plant in full sun, water thoroughly and keep the soil consistently moist while the roots establish. For detailed guidance, visit our complete planting guide →.