Crested Moss Rosa × centifolia 'Cristata' (Ce)
ABOUT
The Rosa × centifolia 'Cristata', also commonly known as the Crested Moss Rose, is notable for its unique and ornamental blossoms. The flowers are highly distinctive with a deeply textured, moss-like growth on the sepals which resembles a crest, giving rise to its common name. This crest is often a green or brownish color, giving it a mossy appearance. The Crested Moss Rose blooms display a lush, pink hue that ranges from soft, pastel tones to rich, deeper shades. The petals are densely packed, creating a sumptuous, globular form which exudes an antique charm reminiscent of roses commonly depicted in classical paintings. The leaves of the Crested Moss Rose are deep green with a matte finish and a slightly leathery texture. They form a lush backdrop to the flowers, enhancing the visual contrast with the vibrant petals. The plant itself has a bushy habit, with the foliage and flowers combining to create a romantic, cottage-garden aesthetic. This rose's alluring fragrance is characteristic of many old rose varieties, offering a sweet and intoxicating aroma that is strongest on warm, sunny days. The combination of its unique crest, full blooms, enchanting color, and delightful scent make the Crested Moss Rose a striking and memorable addition to any garden where it is grown, captivating onlookers with its old-world elegance.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae.
Synonyms
Crested Moss Rose, Chapeau de Napoléon, Crested Moss.
Common names
Rosa × centifolia 'Cristata'.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name of Rosa × centifolia 'Cristata' is Crested Moss Rose. Crested Moss Rose is not considered toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects reported from ingesting this plant. However, it is not advisable to consume any plant parts without proper knowledge or guidance as they may cause gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions in some individuals.
To pets
The common name of Rosa × centifolia 'Cristata' is Crested Moss Rose. Crested Moss Rose is generally considered non-toxic to pets. It is not known to cause significant poisoning if pets consume parts of this plant. Nevertheless, as with any non-food plant, ingestion of large amounts can potentially lead to stomach upset or discomfort in some pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
5 feet (1.5 meters)
Spread
4 feet (1.2 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Rosa × centifolia 'Cristata', commonly known as the Crested Moss Rose, is highly prized for its unique and beautiful flowers, which make it an excellent choice for ornamental gardens and landscape design.
- Aromatic Qualities: The Crested Moss Rose is known for its fragrant blooms, providing a pleasant scent in the garden or when used in bouquets and floral arrangements.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, contributing to the biodiversity and health of the garden ecosystem.
- Cultural Significance: The Crested Moss Rose holds historical importance and has often been featured in art and literature, enriching cultural heritage and garden history.
- Habitat Enrichment: The plant adds structural diversity to a garden and can serve as a natural habitat for various insects and small wildlife.
- Educational Interest: Gardening with Rosa × centifolia 'Cristata' can serve as an educational tool in horticulture, plant biology, and the history of gardening practices.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: The petals of the cabbage rose may possess anti-inflammatory properties useful in reducing skin redness and irritation.
- Antioxidant: Cabbage rose extracts can contain antioxidants, which may help protect the skin from oxidative stress and promote healthy skin aging.
- Astringent: The astringent nature of the cabbage rose can be employed in toning and tightening the skin, potentially benefiting certain skin conditions.
- Emollient: The rose petals or rose oil from the cabbage rose may act as emollients, softening and soothing the skin.
- Antibacterial: There may be antibacterial qualities present in the cabbage rose that could potentially help in addressing minor skin infections.
- Perfumery: The fragrance of the cabbage rose is widely used in aromatherapy and perfumery, which can have calming and uplifting effects on mood.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Perfume Industry: The Crested Moss rose's strongly fragrant blooms are often used in the production of high-end and luxury perfumes.
- Gourmet Cuisine: Edible petals of the Crested Moss rose are sometimes used to add a floral note to salads, desserts, and fancy drinks.
- Aromatherapy: Scented oils derived from the Crested Moss rose can be used in aromatherapy for their calming and uplifting properties.
- Artisanal Crafts: Dried petals of the Crested Moss rose can be used in potpourri, sachets, and other dried floral arrangements.
- Floral Water: Petals from the Crested Moss rose are used to create rosewater, which is used in cooking, baking, and also in certain cosmetic formulations.
- Natural Dyes: The Crested Moss rose petals can be used to create natural dyes for textiles and art projects.
- Culinary Garnish: Fresh Crested Moss rose petals can add an elegant touch as garnishes on cakes, pastries, and other confectioneries.
- Photography and Painting: The unique form of the Crested Moss rose makes it a popular subject for photographers and painters seeking to capture its beauty.
- Eco-Friendly Confetti: Dried petals can be used as a biodegradable option for confetti at weddings and other celebrations.
- Special Events: The Crested Moss rose, with its unique appearance and scent, is often featured in bouquets and decorations for events such as weddings or formal gatherings.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Cabbage Rose is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Cabbage Rose is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love: As a member of the rose family, the Crested Moss (common name of Rosa × centifolia 'Cristata') primarily symbolizes love, which is one of the most well-known meanings associated with roses in general.
- Beauty: The lush, textured blooms of the rose are often associated with beauty and perfection, reflecting an appreciation of aesthetics and the natural world.
- Femininity: The soft and intricate petals can represent femininity and grace, highlighting the delicate yet strong nature of the feminine archetype.
- Romance: Crested Moss roses have strong ties to romantic feelings and gestures, making them popular choices in bouquets for loved ones and during occasions like Valentine's Day and anniversaries.
- Mystery: The unique 'cristata' mutation, which gives the Crested Moss its characteristic moss-like growth on the stems and sepals, can symbolize mystery and the unknown due to its unusual appearance.
- Secrecy: Dating back to the Roman era, roses have been a symbol of secrecy, and the intricate growth of the Crested Moss might echo this sentiment by seemingly concealing the beauty within its unusual exterior.
WaterThe Crested Moss Rose requires thorough watering to establish deep roots, generally receiving about 1 inch of water per week either from rainfall or irrigation. During hot, dry spells, you may need to water twice a week, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation for the most efficient watering, which directly delivers water to the base without wetting the foliage. Depending on the weather condition, you might have to adjust your watering schedule, but make sure to let the soil dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
LightThe Crested Moss Rose thrives best in full sun, meaning it requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Planting it in a spot that gets morning sunlight is ideal, as it helps to dry the dew on the leaves, reducing the risk of disease. Avoid overly shaded areas, as this can hinder its blooming and lead to poor plant health.
TemperatureThe Crested Moss Rose prefers temperate climates and performs best in temperatures between 70°F and 85°F. While it can survive minimum temperatures down to 20°F, frost can damage blooms and foliage, so provide protection if a sudden frost is expected. Throughout the growing season, maintaining an ideal temperature range is essential for the health and blooming of the Crested Moss Rose.
PruningPrune the Crested Moss Rose to remove dead or diseased wood and to shape the plant, promoting better air circulation and sunlight penetration. It's best to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, encourages more blooms. Pruning should be done annually and as needed throughout the blooming season to maintain plant health and appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Crested Moss Rose requires well-draining soil enriched with organic matter, a balanced mix of loam, peat, and sand is ideal. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingCrested Moss Rose typically doesn't need frequent repotting; it should be done every 2 to 3 years to replenish soil nutrients and address root crowding.
Humidity & MistingCrested Moss Rose thrives in average humidity levels but can tolerate a range; no need to adjust normal outdoor humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure plenty of light, well-draining soil, and maintain cooler temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, mulch to retain moisture.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleRosa × centifolia 'Cristata', commonly known as the Crested Moss rose, begins its life as a seed, which when planted and provided with the right conditions, will germinate and sprout into a seedling. As it grows, it enters the vegetative stage, developing stems, leaves, and thorns, with a noticeable increase in size and the appearance of its characteristic moss-like growths on the stems. The plant then reaches maturity and enters the flowering stage, usually in late spring to early summer, producing fragrant, multi-petaled pink flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into hips, the fruiting stage, which contain seeds for the next generation. Throughout the growing seasons, the Crested Moss rose undergoes cycles of growth and dormancy, typically requiring pruning in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage healthy blooming. With proper care, this perennial can survive for several years, going through these stages annually.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Rosa × centifolia 'Cristata', commonly known as the Crested Moss Rose, is traditionally propagated through cuttings. The ideal time for taking cuttings is in late winter or early spring, just before the plant breaks dormancy. To propagate by cuttings, select healthy stems from the previous year's growth and cut them into 6 to 8-inch (15 to 20 cm) lengths, making sure each cutting has at least three sets of leaves. The bottom of the cutting should be cut straight across, just below a leaf node, and the top on an angle to differentiate the top from the bottom and prevent water from accumulating on the cut surface. Dip the base of the cutting into rooting hormone to encourage root development. Then, plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mix, watering them in well and maintaining consistent moisture until roots have established. Keep the cuttings in a bright location out of direct sunlight to avoid wilting and to provide optimal conditions for root growth.
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