Rock Rose
rosa luciae
Also known as: ["Creeping Rose","Japanese Rose"]
Overview
A low-growing, spreading rose species native to East Asia, valued for its glossy foliage and small white or pink flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Rosa |
| Botanical Name: | Rosa luciae |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden border, climbing structure, or trellis
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter (e.g., compost or aged manure).
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Light pruning can be done after flowering if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to remove up to one-third of the plant’s growth, focusing on older or overcrowded s
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily) is ideal, but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates. Adjust exposure based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade. For indoor placement, use a south-facing window with supplemental grow lights if needed.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even growth; use shade cloth in intense summer sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, fertile soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of garden soil, compost, and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Can tolerate brief periods of colder or hotter conditions but thrives in mild climates.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near heat sources; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most effective method. Take 4–6 inch cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing but not under stress.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C) are ideal.
Medium
A mix of peat moss and perlite (1:1 ratio) or a well-draining potting mix with added sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks. Plants may take 3–6 months to establish fully.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools. Cut just above a leaf node or bud. Remove crossing or weak stems to improve structure.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood. Focus on improving air circulation and light penetration.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for thicker stems), sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune at the right time; make clean cuts; remove dead/diseased wood; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, just before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (e.g., 2–3 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove the plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. This refreshes the soil and provides space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water well after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and aerated.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop indicate temperature stress. Wilting or browning edges suggest excessive heat, while blackened leaves point to cold damage.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf discoloration or dieback. Prolonged cold may lead to root damage or death.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch or burlap screens. Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location. Avoid watering excessively in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering. High temperatures may stress the plant, leading to poor health.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, and ensure good air circulation. Mulch to retain soil moisture and cool roots.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicRosa luciae is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicRosa luciae is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicRosa luciae, commonly known as Japanese rose or creeping rose, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic compounds or physiological effects associated with ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Rosa luciae suitable for ground cover?
A: Yes, it is an excellent ground cover due to its spreading habit and low growth.
Q: Does Rosa luciae require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun with adequate moisture.
Q: How often should Rosa luciae be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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