The future of breeding remains bright at David Austin
Shropshire-based rose breeder David Austin® announce the appointment of Daniel Myhill to a senior position within its esteemed rose breeding department.
As the creator of the English Rose and a pioneer in rose breeding since 1961, David Austin Roses is pleased to welcome Daniel to their notable team. With a lifelong passion for roses, Daniel will bring energy and expertise to the world-renowned nursery as he works alongside Carl Bennett, David C. H. Austin’s protégé and a distinguished rose breeder in his own right.
Daniel’s journey with roses began in his childhood, growing up in Whitstable, Kent, where his mother’s love for roses inspired him to cultivate his own interest. A formative visit to the Chelsea Flower Show deepened this passion, sparking a fascination with the history, science, and art of rose breeding. Over the years, 31-year-old Daniel has amassed a collection of over 300 rose varieties and established the National Collection of Rosa persica hybrids, showcasing his dedication to preserving and expanding rose diversity. Decorated for his stand of Rosa persica hybrids at RHS Hampton Court Garden Festival 2024, the RHS Gold Medal winner is also a member of the YPHA (Young People in Horticulture Association) designed to unite under 35's in the industry.
In his new role at David Austin, Daniel will contribute to the development of new varieties that embody the charm, fragrance, and beauty synonymous with English Roses. His analytical skills, honed during his previous career as a geotechnical engineer, will be welcomed in evaluating breeding lines and creating roses that meet the highest standards of health, vigour, and resilience.
Collaborating with lead breeder Carl, Daniel, who’s also the current Chairman of the Breeder’s Group for The Rose Society UK, will build on the rich legacy of David Austin Senior and his son, current Chairman, David J. C. Austin, ensuring the vision of quintessential English Roses continues to flourish.
Carl’s unmatchable contribution over the last 35 years have helped shape the heritage of the English Rose. To ensure the succession of breeding, Carl will work closely with Daniel over an extended period, sharing his wealth of knowledge and expertise to pass the baton seamlessly to the next generation.
“Joining David Austin Roses is a dream come true,” Daniel shared. “It is a privilege to work with Carl Bennett and the talented breeding team to honour and expand on the legacy of David Austin Senior. I’m excited to explore new opportunities in rose breeding, from enhancing disease resistance and fragrance to creating varieties that thrive in a changing climate.”
David Austin Roses has long been a pioneer in the horticultural world, renowned for its innovative breeding programs and commitment to sustainability through its BLOOM strategy. Daniel’s appointment underscores the company’s dedication to advancing the art and science of rose breeding while embracing environmentally conscious practices. His passion for developing pollinator-friendly, easy-to-grow roses aligns with these company goals.
When asked about his favourite David Austin roses, Myhill shared “Tottering-by-Gently® (Auscartoon), such a stunning rose which really appeals to me with its single flower form held in large clusters. Phenomenal for pollinators and harks back to the simplicity of our native dog rose Rosa canina. Rosa Boscobel® (Auscousin) was the first David Austin Rose I purchased. The rich pink and salmon tones of the fully double rose is breathtakingly beautiful. It’s about capturing the “wow” of roses like these.”