Rose

Also known as: Rose, garden rose, shrub rose

Roses are woody perennial shrubs or climbing plants with thorny stems. They bear compound leaves with 5 to 9 leaflets and produce showy flowers in a wide range of colors including red, pink, yellow, white, and orange. Flowers may be single or double, often highly fragrant. The hips (fruits) are usually red or orange and persist into winter. They are among the most popular ornamental plants for gardens worldwide.

Rose

Scientific classification

Species: Rose (Rosa)
Genus: Information to be completed
Family: Rosaceae

Non-toxic to humans and pets, but the thorns can cause physical injury.
Toxicity: Roses
Plant type: 0.6 - 2.0 metres
Height: 0.6 - 1.5 metres
Spread: Deciduous
Foliage: Bushy
Habit: Summer
Season of interest: Full sun
Sunlight: 15 – 25 °C
Ideal temperature

Rose pictures

Information to be completed

Distribution of Rose

Distribution map

Temperate and subtropical regions of the Northern Hemisphere, with some species extending into tropical mountains.

Information to be completed

Culture

Information to be completed

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets, but the thorns can cause physical injury.

Quick identification of Rose

Information to be completed

Rose care guide

Water deeply at the base, aiming for 2.5 cm of water per week, increase during hot weather. Avoid wetting the foliage to reduce disease.
Watering: Full sun
Sunlight: 15 – 25 °C
Ideal temperature

Watering

Water deeply at the base, aiming for 2.5 cm of water per week, increase during hot weather. Avoid wetting the foliage to reduce disease.

Fertilizing

Every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring to mid-summer) with a balanced rose fertilizer.

Pruning

Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches and shape the plant. For repeat-flowering varieties, deadhead regularly. Climbing roses require different pruning: shorten side shoots to 2-3 buds after flowering.

Propagation

Hardwood cuttings taken in autumn are most reliable; insert into sandy soil in a cold frame. Semi-ripe cuttings can be taken in summer under mist. For home gardeners, layering in spring is also effective. Grafting onto rootstocks is common for commercial production.

Growing

Plant roses in a sunny position with fertile, well-drained soil. Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again after the first flush of blooms. Mulch annually with well-rotted manure or compost to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Protect from severe frost in very cold areas by mounding soil around the base. Remove spent flowers to encourage repeat blooming.

More growing and care information →

Common pests and diseases

Diseases

Roses are susceptible to black spot, powdery mildew, and rust. Resistant cultivars are available and should be chosen where possible. Good airflow and avoiding overhead watering help reduce incidence.

Pests

Common pests include aphids, scale insects, red spider mites, and rose leafhoppers. Regular monitoring and insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can control infestations.

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