Even though I don't live in "the SOUTH" per se, I have had luck with a FEW DA roses...those few being: Pat Austin, Wenlock, Mary Rose, and Tamora.
Pat Austin and Wenlock I let grow to become climbers. I specifically did it with Pat because (as Zuzu has said many times) the blooms are too heavy for the stems, so they "nod". Now that it's a climber the nodding isn't an issue, it's actually welcomed.
Wenlock is an ungainly mess that is growing up and through a tall juniper so I just let it do it's thing. Luckily, I don't even notice it until it blooms.
Both of these perform excellently here with zero disease issues...but the heat of summer completely fries the blooms when it's over 85*.
I tore out Mary Rose because the blooms shatter after one day. Tamora bit the dust when the painters ladder fell on it. The blooms on that one weren't plentiful enough and the bush was not worth the space it was occupying.
It has taken me 20 plus years to "finally" come to the conclusion that roses with more than about 40 petals just won't grow in this climate. They ball up, become moldy, and are a royal PITA ! It gets too hot here in late spring, the heat and humidity last until October and DA's just sit there and sulk.
I think the prime reason they don't due well here is the proximity to the ocean (1/8 of a mile). the summer heat, and the humidity.
Yes, I am green with envy of those who can successfully grow them !!!
