Downy Rose

rosa vosagiaca

Also known as: ["Downy Rose","Downy Wild Rose"]

Family: Rosaceae Genus: Rosa Category: Flowers

Overview

A deciduous shrub with pink flowers and downy stems, native to Europe and parts of Asia.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden border or mixed shrubbery
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–7"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter (compost or aged manure).
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; remove up to one-third of old canes each year.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) in spring and summer; partial shade during intense summer heat or in hotter climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun; provide shade during peak afternoon heat; avoid placing in direct, scorching sunlight without acclimation.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering or poor drainage), stunted growth (nutrient deficiency or compacted soil), or wilting (root issues).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Morning sun is ideal; protect from harsh afternoon rays; adjust shade as seasons change.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil with added organic matter

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

Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cold but may require protection below 20°F (-7°C).

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize in spring before new growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; water before and after applying fertilizer.

Propagation

Methods

Softwood or hardwood cuttings; layering is also effective.

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

Best Time: Late spring to early summer for softwood cuttings; late summer for hardwood cuttings.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).

Medium

Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.

Hormone

Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success rates.

Timeline

Softwood cuttings root in 4–6 weeks; hardwood cuttings take 6–8 weeks to root and establish.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut canes back to a healthy outward-facing bud; remove crossing or weak growth; thin out dense areas.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or diseased wood. Focus on removing old canes to promote new growth.

Tools

Sharp bypass pruners, loppers, pruning saw (for thick canes), disinfectant.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune in late winter; remove dead/diseased wood; thin crowded areas; shape the plant.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone. Apply until water begins to drain from the bottom, ensuring even saturation without waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and reduce fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once per 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 compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; ensure organic matter is well-mixed.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback, especially in young or weak plants.

Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with burlap or frost cloth in severe cold; choose sheltered planting sites.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower drop, and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water before and after; avoid late-season feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply a second light feeding after the first bloom cycle. Reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer/fall.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Rosa vosagiaca may indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as iron or nitrogen, or may be a symptom of root rot, pests, or fungal infections. Environmental stress, such as overwatering or poor drainage, can also contribute to chlorosis.

Wilting in Rosa vosagiaca is often a sign of water stress, either due to under-watering or over-watering leading to root rot. It can also result from pest infestations or diseases that disrupt water transport within the plant.

Leaf spots on Rosa vosagiaca are often caused by fungal pathogens such as Diplocarpon rosae (black spot) or Cercospora rosae. These spots can lead to defoliation, reduced photosynthesis, and weakened plant vigor.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Rosa vosagiaca is commonly caused by overwatering or poor soil drainage, leading to fungal infections like Phytophthora or Fusarium. This can cause plant decline and eventual death if not addressed.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Rosa vosagiaca is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known toxins that would pose a risk to felines upon ingestion.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While the plant is non-toxic, it is recommended to prevent pets from ingesting ornamental plants to avoid potential gastrointestinal irritation.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Rosa vosagiaca is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known substances that would be harmful to canines upon ingestion.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Although non-toxic, ingestion of large quantities of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. Monitor your pet if they consume any part of the plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Rosa vosagiaca, commonly known as the Dog Rose, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While the plant is non-toxic, it is always advisable to avoid consuming any part of ornamental plants unless specifically cultivated for culinary use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Rosa vosagiaca suitable for beginners?

A: It is moderately challenging to care for, so it is better suited for those with some gardening experience.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.

Q: What are common issues with this plant?

A: Common problems include leaf spots and fungal growth, especially in humid conditions.

Quick Reference
Family: Rosaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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