Rose

Also known as: Rose, Garden Rose, Shrub Rose

Roses are woody perennials with thorny stems, compound leaves, and showy flowers ranging from single to double petals in a wide array of colors including red, pink, yellow, white, and orange. They typically grow as bushy shrubs or climbers, reaching 1–2 meters in height depending on the cultivar. The flowers are often fragrant and bloom repeatedly from late spring through autumn, providing long-lasting ornamental value in gardens.

Scientific classification

Species: Rose (Rosa spp.)
Genus: Rosa
Family: Rosaceae

Roses are non-toxic to humans and pets, though the thorns can cause physical injury.
Toxicity: Roses · Shrubs · Herbaceous Perennial
Plant type: 1.2 - 2.0 metres
Height: 0.9 - 1.5 metres
Spread: Deciduous
Foliage: Bushy
Habit: Spring · Summer · Autumn
Season of interest: Full sun
Sunlight: 15 – 25 °C
Ideal temperature

Rose pictures

Distribution of Rose

Distribution map

Temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North America

Information to be completed

Culture

Information to be completed

Toxicity

Roses are non-toxic to humans and pets, though the thorns can cause physical injury.

Quick identification of Rose

Information to be completed

Rose care guide

Deep water, keep soil moist
Watering: Full sun
Sunlight: 15 – 25 °C
Ideal temperature

Watering

Deep water, keep soil moist

Fertilizing

Monthly in growing season

Pruning

Prune roses in late winter or early spring when the buds begin to swell. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches, and cut back the remaining stems to an outward-facing bud to promote vigorous growth and flowering.

Propagation

Roses are commonly propagated by hardwood cuttings taken in late autumn or softwood cuttings in early summer. Dip the cut ends in rooting hormone and insert into a moist, sterile cutting compost. Keep under mist or in a propagator with bottom heat (18–21°C) until roots develop. Grafting onto rootstocks is also used for many hybrid varieties.

Growing

Plant roses in a sunny position with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, in fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil. Water deeply and regularly during dry spells, especially when flowering. Apply a balanced rose fertilizer in early spring and again after the first flush of blooms. Mulch with well-rotted manure or compost in late autumn to protect roots from frost. Avoid overhead watering to reduce foliar diseases.

More growing and care information →

Common pests and diseases

Diseases

Roses are susceptible to black spot, powdery mildew, and rust, especially in humid conditions. Choose disease-resistant cultivars and ensure good air circulation to minimize problems.

Pests

Common pests include aphids, spider mites, thrips, and rose sawfly larvae. Regular monitoring and appropriate treatments (e.g., insecticidal soap) can control infestations.

Explore the plant health library →