1993, David Austin, UK
Class:  Shrub / English
Zones:  4-9
Parentage:  'Prospero' x ('Charles Austin' x 'Gloire de Ducher')
Flowers:  Dark burgundy, double, 3 1/2"
Height/Width:  6-8 feet x 6 feet (warm climates.)
3 feet x 3 feet (cool climates)
Fragrance:

Introduced in 1993, 'Tradescant' is just now becoming available to American gardeners; due to strict quarantine laws, plants imported into the U.S. are required to undergo a two year quarantine, and then it takes a period of a couple more years before enough plant stock is available for commercial garden sales. 

'Tradescant' is a good choice for those who favor dark roses; large clusters of ten to fifteen buds open to flat, fully double blooms of the deepest crimson; in fact, 'Tradescant' would be a good choice for gardeners who are looking for a 'black rose' (although all black roses are actually very dark red).  Fragrance is strong, and reminiscent of many of the Old Roses.  Foliage is light green and disease resistant on arching canes which may reach eight feet in southern gardens. 

Some American gardeners have reported weak growth during the first year, suggesting that 'Tradescant' may need a season or two to become established.  On the positive side, it is reported that this rose will survive in cold climates, even for gardeners located in Canada.

Named for the Tradescant Trust, which is the constructing the Museum of Garden History on the grounds of the Church of St. Mary-at-Lambath.