Rosa richardii Rosa × richardii
ABOUT
Rosa × richardii, commonly known as the Memorial Rose, is a hybrid rose with a classic and elegant appearance. The plant typically features lush, dark green leaves that provide a beautiful backdrop for its flowers. The bloom of the Memorial Rose is its most striking attribute, with petals that can range from pristine white to a pale cream color. Each flower is gracefully shaped, often with a slightly cupped form that opens to reveal its inner whirl of delicate petals and a center packed with golden-yellow stamens. These stamens add a dash of color contrast, making the flowers stand out even more against the foliage. The petals themselves are usually velvety to the touch, and they can exhibit a subtle fragrance that may attract pollinators and delight garden visitors. The blooms are typically large and showy, making them a focal point in any garden setting. Additionally, the flowers are known for their durability and may last for a considerable period either on the plant or when cut and used in floral arrangements. Over the course of its blooming season, the Memorial Rose continues to produce these enchanting flowers, often in flushes that provide a repeating display of beauty. The overall appearance of the plant is one of classic rose charm, with the flowers often being the highlight of the plant due to their size, shape, and coloration. The contrast between the dark foliage and the bright blooms creates an eye-catching spectacle in any garden or landscape where this rose is featured.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Memorial Rose, Rosa Sancta.
Common names
Rosa × richardii.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as the rose does not typically pose a toxicity risk to humans. Roses are generally considered non-toxic, and there are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting roses or rose petals. However, it's always advisable to eat only plants that are known to be safe and edible, especially if they have been treated with pesticides or other chemicals.
To pets
Roses are generally considered non-toxic to pets as well. They are not known to contain any substances that are poisonous to dogs, cats, or other household pets. However, ingesting large amounts of rose stems, leaves, or thorns could potentially cause gastrointestinal upset or mechanical injury, such as scratches or punctures in the mouth or throat. If a pet ingests a significant portion of a rose plant, especially the thorny stems, it's recommended to consult with a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Middle East
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Rosa × richardii, commonly known as the Memorial Rose, adds beauty to gardens with its delicate white flowers.
- Landscape Design: It can be used in various design schemes, including formal gardens, cottage gardens, and as a specimen plant.
- Habitat Support: The flowers provide nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators, which are essential for a healthy ecosystem.
- Fragrance: The Memorial Rose emits a pleasant scent that can enhance the sensory experience of a garden space.
- Cultural Significance: Historically revered, it holds symbolic value in certain cultures and can be used in thematic gardens.
- Erosion Control: When planted on slopes, its root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Hedge Formation: Can be trained to form hedges that provide privacy and structure in garden design.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers seasonal appeal with blossoms in spring and summer, sometimes extending its display into autumn.
- Companion Planting: Serves well with other plants in mixed borders, offering visual contrast and harmony.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Rosa × richardii, commonly known as the Memorial Rose, can be used for natural dyeing, producing colors ranging from light pink to orange depending on the mordant used.
- Its petals can be added to potpourri mixtures for a delicate fragrance and to serve as an ornamental feature in scent sachets.
- Essential oil extracted from the Memorial Rose can be used in perfumery to provide a subtle rose aroma to fragrances.
- Dried rose petals can be used in paper making, adding a unique texture and floral elements to handmade papers.
- Rose water, made from the petals of the Memorial Rose, is utilized in cooking for flavoring desserts and pastries in Middle Eastern cuisine.
- The plant can be employed in landscape gardening due to its historical significance and as a symbol or remembrance.
- Rose hips, the fruit of Rosa × richardii, can be used to create botanical jewelry with its vibrant red-orange color adding to the aesthetic appeal.
- Its strong and thorny stems may be used in creating natural barriers or living fences for securing private properties.
- Pressed rose petals from the Memorial Rose can be used in decoration, particularly for embellishing invitations or greeting cards.
- The plant's leaves and petals can act as a natural insect repellent in drawers and wardrobes to protect clothes from moths.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Rosa × richardii, commonly known as the Memorial Rose, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Memorial Rose is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Purity: The Rosa × richardii, commonly known as the White Rose of York, is often associated with purity due to its white color, which traditionally represents innocence and chastity.
- Love: As with many roses, the White Rose can symbolize love, though the love represented by white roses can be more focused on pure, platonic, or unconditional love rather than the passion of red roses.
- Mystery: A white rose like the Rosa × richardii can evoke a sense of mystery or secrecy, possibly due to the way its pure appearance conceals the complexity within.
- Reverence: The white rose can express reverence, showing deep respect for someone or something, often used in religious or solemn contexts.
- New Beginnings: White roses symbolize new beginnings and are frequently used in weddings and ceremonies that mark fresh starts or major life changes.
WaterThe Memorial Rose (Rosa × richardii) should be watered deeply and thoroughly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Typically, watering should be done once a week with about 1.5 gallons per bush, but this can vary depending on climate conditions, with more frequent watering necessary in hot, dry weather and less in cool, rainy periods. It is important to avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of disease; instead water at the base of the plant early in the day to allow foliage to dry. During the winter months or in periods of rainfall, reduce the amount of water provided.
LightThe Memorial Rose prefers full sun conditions, with at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for this plant would be in an open area, away from large trees or buildings that could cast shade. Ensure that the plant receives morning light, which is less harsh than the afternoon sun, and it will contribute to healthy growth and bloom production.
TemperatureThe Memorial Rose thrives in a range of temperatures, but it prefers a moderate climate. It can survive minimum winter temperatures of around 20 degrees Fahrenheit but grows best when the temperature ranges between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Protection from extreme cold and heat can help maintain plant health and flower quality.
PruningPrune the Memorial Rose in late winter or early spring, just as the buds begin to swell, to promote healthy growth and encourage flowering. Remove dead or damaged wood, thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation, and shape the bush as desired. Pruning is performed once a year, although deadheading, or the removal of spent flowers, can be done throughout the blooming season to keep the plant looking tidy and encourage more blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Rosa × richardii, commonly known as the Frankincense Rose, thrives in well-drained loamy soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. A mixture of one-third topsoil, one-third peat moss or compost, and one-third sand or perlite creates an ideal environment. Ensure rich organic content for nutrient supply and water retention without waterlogging.
RepottingThe Frankincense Rose does not require frequent repotting and should be relocated to a larger container approximately every two to four years. It is best to repot when the plant has outgrown its current pot or the soil is depleted of nutrients.
Humidity & MistingThe Frankincense Rose prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable. Aim for around 40-60% humidity for optimal growth, taking care to avoid excessively dry or damp conditions that can lead to stress or disease.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, moderate watering, and good air flow.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Rosa × richardii, commonly known as the Rose of Jericho, begins with seed germination, which occurs when environmental conditions are favorable, usually in spring. Following germination, the seedling grows, developing a root system and foliage through the vegetative state. As it matures, the plant enters a flowering stage where buds form and blossom into characteristic roses, typically during late spring to summer, depending on the climate. After pollination, often aided by insects, the flowers develop into fruits, commonly referred to as rose hips, which contain seeds for the next generation. These hips mature in late summer or autumn and eventually release seeds when they wither and open. The plant goes through periods of dormancy, especially in colder climates, during winter or unfavorable conditions, but will resume its cycle with warmer weather or increased moisture.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Rosa × richardii, commonly known as the Memorial Rose, is through cuttings. This technique is generally undertaken in late winter to early spring. One would select a healthy, disease-free branch and cut a piece about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) long, ideally with several sets of leaves. The cut should be made just below a leaf node, and the lower leaves should be removed. The cutting is then dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development and planted in a well-draining soil mixture. It's important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and to place the cutting in a location with indirect sunlight until roots have established, which typically takes a few weeks.
