Small-flowered Rose

rosa micrantha

Also known as: ["Alpine Rose","Small-flowered Wild Rose"]

Family: Rosaceae Genus: Rosa Category: Shrubs

Overview

A deciduous shrub native to Europe and Asia, known for its small, delicate pink flowers and thorny stems.

Benefits & Perks

["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 micrantha

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–8"}
  • 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.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate.
Care Details

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

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering); stunted growth (poor soil quality); root rot (poor drainage).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during extreme heat; rotate pots for even growth.

Watering

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

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil with added organic matter

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

Avoid heavy clay; ensure good aeration; test pH periodically.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids frost; thrives in moderate summer heat.

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

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply after watering; avoid fertilizing stressed plants.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood).

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Select healthy stem.
  2. Cut below node.
  3. Remove lower leaves.
  4. Apply hormone.
  5. Plant in medium.
  6. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is present.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F).

Medium

Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for drainage.

Hormone

Recommended to promote root development.

Timeline

Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use clean tools; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut back to healthy buds; thin out crowded branches; remove crossing stems.

Pruning Plan

Encourage bushy growth, remove dead/diseased wood, and shape the plant for better flowering.

Tools

Sharp bypass pruners, loppers (for thicker stems), gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune at right time; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage holes are clear.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; improves growth and prevents congestion.

Checklist

Prepare new pot; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.

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

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or peat moss for fertility; mix perlite or sand for drainage; ensure aeration with organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

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

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback; vulnerable to frost damage.

Solution: Provide winter protection (mulch, burlap); move potted plants indoors; avoid planting in frost-prone areas.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; increased susceptibility to pests.

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

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth stage; use diluted fertilizer; water before feeding; avoid contact with roots.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Rosa micrantha may indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as iron or nitrogen, or may be a symptom of root rot, pest infestations, or viral infections, all of which can compromise plant health and vigour.

Wilting in Rosa micrantha is often a sign of water stress, either due to insufficient watering or root damage from pathogens like Phytophthora, which can lead to severe dehydration and eventual plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Rosa micrantha are typically caused by fungal pathogens like Diplocarpon rosae (black spot) or Cercospora, which can lead to defoliation, reduced photosynthesis, and weakened plant vigour.

Rotting in Rosa micrantha, particularly root or crown rot, is commonly caused by fungal pathogens such as Fusarium or Rhizoctonia, leading to decay of plant tissues, poor nutrient uptake, and eventual plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Rosa micrantha is not toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds that would harm felines upon ingestion.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for cats around Rosa micrantha.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Rosa micrantha is not toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain substances that are harmful to canines when ingested.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for dogs around Rosa micrantha.
Humans
Non-toxic

Rosa micrantha is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for handling or consuming parts of Rosa micrantha.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Rosa micrantha suitable for small gardens?

A: Yes, it is a relatively compact shrub that can fit well in smaller garden spaces.

Q: Does Rosa micrantha require full sun?

A: It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

Q: Are the flowers of Rosa micrantha fragrant?

A: Yes, the small flowers are known for their delicate fragrance.

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