Petal Pals
shrub · 2002
Spirit of Freedom
Rosa 'AUSbite'
8 to 10 feet when trained as a climber; 5 to 8 feet when grown as a large shrub.
Height
Repeat
Blooming
Full sun
Light
5–11
Zone
Plant & Flower Traits
Rose type
shrub
Bloom size
Large (3.5 to 5 inches in diameter).
Bloom habit
Produces very full, deeply cupped, and globular blooms that appear in small clusters of 5 to 10 flowers. The heavy blooms often exhibit a graceful nodding habit on arching stems.
Petal count
Approximately 200 petals.
Flowering
repeat blooming
Habit
climbing
Color
pink
Fragrance
strong
Foliage
Greyish-green to dark green.
Foliage surface
Semi-glossy and leathery.
Fragrance Notes
Features a distinct and pleasing myrrh fragrance with subtle notes of old rose, vanilla, and fruit.
Color Description
Soft pink, fading to lilac-pink or lavender over time; very full blooms with over 40 (often up to 200) petals.
🌱 Growth & Garden Habits
Light
Full sun
Height
8 to 10 feet when trained as a climber; 5 to 8 feet when grown as a large shrub.
Spread
4 to 6 feet.
Soil
Thrives in well-drained, fertile soil enriched with organic matter; adaptable to various soil types including clay or loam if drainage is sufficient.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 5–11
Disease Resistance
Generally displays excellent health and robust disease resistance, though preventative measures are recommended in humid environments.
🌿 Care Guide
Watering
Requires regular deep watering to encourage a robust root system; maintain approximately 1 inch of water per week during the first year and increase frequency during periods of extreme heat or drought.
Fertilizer
This variety is a heavy feeder; apply a high-quality organic or slow-release fertilizer three times per growing season, typically in mid-April, mid-June, and mid-August.
Pruning
Pruning is best performed in early spring or late winter. For a climbing habit, long canes should be trained and secured to a trellis or fence. For a shrub form, prune stems back by roughly one-third of their height. Always remove dead, damaged, or diseased wood to maintain plant health and improve air circulation.
Pests & Diseases
Susceptible to 'balling' (bud rot) during prolonged rainy periods. May be affected by common rose pests such as aphids and Japanese beetles. Fungal issues like black spot and powdery mildew can occur if air circulation is poor.
🧬 Pedigree
Unnamed seedling × 'Auscot' (Abraham Darby)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
None widely recognized by ARS or RHS (no AARS or RHS AGM recorded).