Featuring revolutionary display gardens, regular appearances of royalty, and an overall atmosphere of springtime joy, the event combines various attractions.
The Royal Horticultural Society’s Chelsea Flower Exhibition
It stands as one of the most highly awaited occasions annually. For gardening enthusiasts, nothing compares to the excitement of unveiling cutting-edge new flower and plant species—a trend that this year has more than lived up to expectations. Leading the pack is “The King’s Rose,” which honors HRH King Charles III and was unveiled by
David Austin Roses
At this year’s event following 12 years of development.
The King’s Rose boasts magenta petals with white stripes, evoking memories of the classic Gallica roses—also referred to as Gallic roses, French roses, or the Apothecary’s rose—which often displayed variegated patterns and were frequently seen in medieval gardens. This particular variety stands out as the inaugural striped rose within the David Austin lineup; according to the brand, each bloom exhibits such artistic petal formations that no two flowers look identical.
The distinctive striped pattern of the new flower led David J.C. Austin, who heads David Austin Roses, to pursue a collaboration with King Charles.
The King’s Foundation
In the 1990s, Austin initially encountered Charles, who was later crowned as the HRH Prince of Wales, at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. They discussed the inaugural roses they cultivated in their individual gardens: Ferdinand Pichard, a heritage hybrid perpetual rose distinguished by its striped petals. Years after their meeting when this particular variety blossomed and displayed its characteristic stripes—figuratively speaking—Austin reminisced about their initial conversation from years back, leading to a fresh partnership between them.
Austin mentions that the rose serves as “a tribute to the lasting principles upheld by His Majesty King Charles III.” This homage embodies the king’s persistent dedication to environmental stewardship, sustainable practices, and cultural preservation—particularly through his foundation. For every purchase of The King’s Rose, the rose company pledges to contribute a part of the proceeds to the Foundation, underscoring their mutual pledge to excellence in craftmanship, eco-friendly initiatives, and profound appreciation for the environment.
This marks the second partnership revealed by the King’s Foundation this month. They had previously announced another collaboration earlier in May.
Highgrove by Sanderson
, a fabric and wallpaper line created in collaboration with the English home decor brand and influenced by King Charles’ personal gardens. (Here’s your exclusive first glimpse of the collection)
here
.)
The King’s Rose has several features that the company claims will aid in nurturing local environments: its semi-double, outward-facing flowers attract pollinators such as bees due to their bright yellow stamens. Additionally, its tiny fruits change color to an attractive orange during winter, offering sustenance to birds. This particular variety of rose blossoms more than once per season, ensuring continuous aesthetic appeal and ecological advantages all year round. Moreover, each bloom carries a moderate musky scent infused with undertones of apple and rosewater.
The latest addition to their collection will be showcased notably on the David Austin Roses exhibit within the Great Pavilion at RHS Chelsea in 2025, which runs from May 20th through May 24th for the general public. To access additional exclusive and insider content about this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show, stay tuned as we provide ongoing coverage.
@newsinpo.spacemag
for updates.
