Zone 6: I planted this in late June just as it got very hot -up to 100 degrees in Oklahoma. I did make a big effort to amend the planting hole with compost , manure and humus, add mychorrizidhal fungus, use only a top dressing of organic slow release fertilizer ( Milorganite ). I was taking no chances, Despite the fact that I was warned that it might not bloom till next year I discovered 2 lovely blossoms today-less than 2 weeks later ! I'm a lifelong admirer of William Morris so it is fun to have this rose in the garden.
The color is soft and lovely. The blooms are small and very delicate. No black spot and it has been raining. I think that it will be just lovely next spring.