Thin-leaved Rose
rosa trachyphylla
Also known as: ["Thin-leaved Rose","Rosa trachyphylla"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub rose species native to the Himalayas, characterized by its thin, leathery leaves and small, pinkish-white flowers.
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 trachyphylla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12 to 35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- 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; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old wood to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify sunlight.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Test soil pH annually; amend with lime if too acidic; avoid over-amending with organic matter in heavy soils.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures but avoid prolonged exposure below 20°F (-6°C).
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent humidity in dry conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in early spring before new growth; water thoroughly after fertilizing; stop feeding in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings taken in early summer; layering is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Best Time: Early summer when new growth is flexible and actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; plants may take a full season to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back to an outward-facing bud or healthy lateral branch; thin out crowded canes to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or diseased wood annually; shape the plant to encourage airflow and light penetration; promote vigorous growth and blooming.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, loppers, pruning saw, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before bud break; remove dead/diseased wood first; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil mix; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
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 fungal growth; ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, adjusting for rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure organic matter is well-decomposed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; cover with frost cloth during freezes; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, and increased water demand.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply at half-strength for young plants; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply a second light feeding after the first bloom cycle; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicRosa trachyphylla is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not produce toxic compounds that would cause harm to feline health upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicRosa trachyphylla is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known toxic substances that would pose a risk to canine health upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicRosa trachyphylla is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Rosa trachyphylla suitable for beginners?
A: No, it requires moderate care and is better suited for enthusiasts.
Q: Does this rose attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Are the leaves prone to fungal issues?
A: Yes, leaf spots and mould can occur, especially in humid conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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