French Rose
rosa gallica
Also known as: ["Apothecary's Rose","Red Rose of Lancaster"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub rose known for its deep pink to red flowers and historical significance in European gardens.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Rosa |
| Botanical Name: | Rosa gallica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to moderate-draining; must not retain standing water.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loam with organic matter; avoid heavy clay or pure sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning after first flush of blooms if desired.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy; remove up to one-third of old wood annually for renewal.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct sunlight.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid deep shade for best flowering.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Mulch to retain moisture; avoid compacting soil; test pH annually; amend as needed.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights and warmer days; dormant in winter below 40°F (4°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from cold drafts; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; apply evenly around the base; avoid contact with stems or leaves.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (softwood or hardwood); layering is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain moisture and humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer for softwood cuttings; late summer for hardwood cuttings.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); indirect light; warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Perlite or sand mixed with peat moss; well-draining potting mix for layering.
Hormone
Recommended for faster rooting; use a rooting powder or gel with auxins.
Timeline
Softwood cuttings root in 3–6 weeks; hardwood cuttings take 6–12 weeks; establishment in 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use disease-free parent material; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut canes at a 45-degree angle just above an outward-facing bud; thin out crowded growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead, diseased, or crossing canes; encourage airflow and shape; stimulate vigorous growth and flowering.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, loppers, pruning saw, disinfectant (bleach or alcohol).
Checklist
Sterilize tools; remove dead/diseased wood; cut to shape; clean up debris; apply dormant oil if needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure bottom drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; add fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with finger; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; use raised beds in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; slow growth or bud drop in cold stress; yellowing or wilting in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, reduces flowering, and can cause dieback in severe cold; frost damage may kill tender parts.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect with burlap in frost; move potted roses indoors or to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering; increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; apply during active growth; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced rose fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in late summer/fall to avoid new growth before winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicRosa gallica is generally considered non-toxic to cats. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's natural compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic unless ingested in large quantities
Dogs
Non-toxicRosa gallica is generally considered non-toxic to dogs. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's natural compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic unless ingested in large quantities
Humans
Non-toxicRosa gallica is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the plant's natural compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic unless ingested in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Rosa gallica suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, it is moderately easy to care for and suitable for beginners with some gardening experience.
Q: Does Rosa gallica attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its fragrant flowers.
Q: Are the flowers of Rosa gallica edible?
A: While the petals are sometimes used in culinary applications, they are mildly toxic and should be consumed with caution.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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