Austrian Copper Rose, Yellow Rose

rosa foetida

Also known as: ["Austrian Copper Rose","Yellow Rose","Federation Rose"]

Family: Rosaceae Genus: Rosa Category: Flowers

Overview

A deciduous shrub rose known for its bright yellow flowers, often with a coppery hue. It is one of the oldest known yellow roses and is valued for its hardiness and vibrant color.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","disease resistant","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Rosales
Family: Rosaceae
Genus: Rosa
Botanical Name: Rosa foetida

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden bed with good air circulation, or container in a sunny spot
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Fragrance Lovers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining loam with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning after flowering if needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and vigor.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with some afternoon shade in hot climates; adjust exposure based on seasonal intensity.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to full sun; protect from harsh midday sun to prevent scorching; provide dappled shade in extreme heat.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or nutrient imbalance.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Morning sun is ideal; rotate pots for even growth; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; ensure soil dries between waterings; adjust frequency based on weather and growth stage.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid waterlogging; amend heavy soil with organic matter.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids prolonged frost or extreme heat.

Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain moderate humidity.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize after pruning; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; water before feeding.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or hardwood cuttings in late winter/early spring.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 6–8 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Late winter or early spring before active growth begins.

Environment

Warm (65–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and indirect light.

Medium

Perlite and peat moss mix or sandy loam with good drainage.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut just above outward-facing buds; remove crossing branches; thin dense growth.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead/diseased wood; shape plant; encourage airflow and flowering.

Tools

Sharp bypass pruners, loppers, pruning saw, disinfectant.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune at correct angle; remove dead/diseased wood first; shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth starts.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and root health.

Checklist

Choose new pot with drainage; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.

Pro Tip: Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the roots, reducing waste and leaf wetness.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once a week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to once every 2–3 weeks, ensuring soil dries slightly between waterings.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use raised beds if soil is heavy.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis, wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to frost damage if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C).

Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; move potted roses indoors or to a sheltered location; use frost cloth for protection.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, growth may stall, and flowers may fade quickly in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce ground heat.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact; follow seasonal schedule.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Rosa foetida may indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as iron chlorosis, or stress from environmental factors like overwatering or poor drainage.

Wilting in Rosa foetida can result from water stress, either due to drought or root issues such as root rot, which impairs water uptake.

Leaf spots on Rosa foetida are commonly caused by fungal pathogens like Diplocarpon rosae (black spot) or Cercospora species, leading to defoliation and reduced photosynthesis.

Rotting, particularly root or crown rot, can affect Rosa foetida, often caused by fungal pathogens in poorly drained soil, leading to plant decline and death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Rosa foetida is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally not toxic

Monitor pets to prevent ingestion of any plant material, though toxicity is not expected.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Rosa foetida is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally not toxic

Monitor pets to prevent ingestion of any plant material, though toxicity is not expected.
Humans
Non-toxic

Rosa foetida is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from exposure to this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally not toxic

While non-toxic, avoid ingestion of any plant parts as a general precaution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Rosa foetida fragrant?

A: Yes, Rosa foetida has a mild, sweet fragrance.

Q: How often should Rosa foetida be watered?

A: Water deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Rosa foetida attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Rosaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","fragrance lovers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Climbing Prairie Rose
View
Sloe
View
Slender Agrimony
View
Alchemilla Cinquefoil
View