Shrub rose plant named `Royal Edward`

Abstract

A new and distinct variety of shrub rose plant is provided which forms in clusters attractive pink blossoms that tend to lighten somewhat when fully open. The new variety exhibits a distinctive semi-dwarf and spreading growth habit with glossy foliage, and good winter hardiness. Resistance to powdery mildew and blackspot has been observed. The new variety propagates well by the use of softwood stem cuttings, and is well adapted for growing as colorful ornamentation in the landscape. It is particularly well suited for use in rock gardens and small space plantings.

We claim: 
     
       1. A new and distinct variety of shrub rose plant characterized by the following combination of characteristics: (a) exhibits a semi-dwarf and spreading growth habit with attractive dark green glossy foliage,   (b) forms in clusters attractive pink blossoms that tend to lighten when fully open,   (c) propagates well by the use of softwood cuttings,   (d) exhibits good winter hardiness, and   (e) is particularly well suited for growing as ornamentation in the landscape; substantially as herein shown and described.