Graham Thomas
GRAHAM THOMAS
Shrub Rose
‘Graham Thomas’ is David Austin’s most popular rose around the world and was inducted into the WFRS Hall of Fame in 2009. Introduced in 1983, this, more than any other cultivar, has been responsible for the success of David Austin English Shrub Roses worldwide.
Graham Thomas is classified as a Shrub Rose. In Australia, it is best grown as a moderate sized climber or pillar rose. Growth is strong, upright and bushy, and one plant can cover an area 2m tall x 4m wide given the right conditions – perfect for screening a fence or garage.
The rich yellow blooms are borne in profusion in spring and autumn with a sprinkling of flowers in between. Each flower is cupped shape with an intense, spicy Tea Rose fragrance. This rose performs well in our warm, dry climate and is reliable and healthy.
Named to honour Graham Stuart Thomas, one of the most influential gardeners and Rosarians of the 20th Century. His career spanned eight decades, he was also an author, artist and historian and is well known for his work popularising old and new shrub roses.
‘Graham Thomas’ is available from Knight’s Roses, Wagner’s Rose Nursery, Treloar Roses and rosesalesonline.
Another famous English Shrub rose is ‘Sally Holmes’ known for its prolific flowering and excellent disease resistance. Bred by amateur rose breeder Robert Holmes in the UK in 1976, it was inducted into the Rose Hall of Fame in 2012.
Text and Photos: Melanie Trimper
