Red Wing Rose Rosa 'Red Wing' (S)
ABOUT
The Rosa 'Red Wing', commonly known as a type of rose, is characterized by its vibrant red flowers that stand out with their semi-double form, showcasing a cluster of yellow stamens at the center. The petals exude a velvety texture and the blossoms are known to emerge throughout the growing season, providing a long-lasting display of color in the garden. The foliage is typically dark green, glossy, and has a leathery feel, which creates a striking contrast against the bright red blooms. The stems may have thorns that aid in the plant's defense. The overall appearance is lush and ornamental, making it a popular choice for ornamental gardeners seeking to add a touch of classic elegance with the boldness of red-petaled roses.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Red Wing Rose
Common names
Rosa 'Red Wing'
- Toxicity
To humans
The plant commonly known as rose is not considered toxic to humans. In general, roses are not poisonous if ingested, and they are actually used in culinary applications in various cultures due to their fragrance and flavor. Eating large quantities of rose parts, such as excessive amounts of petals, may lead to stomach discomfort due to the fiber content, but no serious poisoning is expected from consuming parts of a rose plant.
To pets
The plant commonly known as rose is not considered toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. While roses are not poisonous, if a pet were to ingest a large amount of rose material, such as petals or leaves, they might experience mild gastrointestinal upset due to the indigestible nature of the plant fibers. However, roses have thorns that can cause physical injury if a pet tries to chew on the stems or branches. No serious toxicity is anticipated from the ingestion of rose parts by pets.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
5 feet (1.52 meters)
Spread
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant color and beauty to gardens with its deep red flowers.
- Attracts Pollinators: Invites bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Fragrance: Offers a pleasant scent which can enhance the sensory experience of a garden.
- Landscape Versatility: Suited for use in borders, hedges, and as a focal point in garden designs.
- Seasonal Interest: Provides a long blooming season, typically from late spring to early autumn.
- Cultural Symbolism: Roses are often associated with love and passion, making them popular for special occasions.
- Durability: Resistant to many diseases and pests that typically affect roses.
- Ease of Care: Low maintenance requirements make it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Adaptability: Capable of growing in a variety of soil types and climates.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Rose petals can be added to salads for a pop of color and a subtle floral flavor, enhancing the presentation and taste of a variety of dishes.
- Rose water, created by distilling rose petals, can be used as a flavoring agent in pastries and desserts such as baklava and Turkish delight.
- Pressed or dried rose petals can serve as a natural confetti for weddings or other celebrations, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic confetti.
- The essential oils extracted from roses are often used in aromatherapy practices to promote relaxation and stress relief.
- Rose hips, the fruit of the rose plant, can be transformed into a vibrant natural dye for fabrics, offering an eco-friendly dyeing option.
- Due to their lovely scent, dried rose petals can be compiled into potpourri to naturally freshen up living spaces without the use of artificial air fresheners.
- Roses can also play a role in art, as rose petals can be used to create botanical mandalas or included in papermaking for decorative paper with floral inclusions.
- The petals of roses can be crafted into biodegradable jewelry, providing a unique wearable art that is gentle on the environment.
- In the culinary realm, rose petals can be candied for a sweet treat or to garnish and enhance the visual appeal of cakes and cupcakes.
- Fresh rose petals can be frozen into ice cubes to add an elegant touch to beverages served at special events or dinners.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The rose is commonly associated with attracting love and romance, so in accordance with Feng Shui, it should be placed in the southwest area of a garden or room to enhance relationships.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The rose is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Love - The 'Red Wing' rose, like many red roses, commonly symbolizes deep love and affection.
- Passion - Its vibrant red hue is traditionally associated with intense desire and passionate feelings.
- Beauty - Roses have long been celebrated for their classic beauty and the 'Red Wing' rose is no exception, representing grace and elegance.
- Courage - Red roses also symbolize courage and respect, indicating admiration for someone's strength and bravery.
- Honor - Giving a 'Red Wing' rose can be a gesture of honor towards another person, acknowledging their integrity and respectability.
- Devotion - They can represent a commitment or a pledge to someone, showing deep devotion and fidelity.
- Water
Red roses like Rosa 'Red Wing' should be watered deeply once a week, allowing for about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per bush, depending on weather conditions. During hot or dry periods, increase the frequency to twice a week. It's crucial to water the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk of leaf spot diseases. Ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
- Light
Red roses require full sun, which means they need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The ideal spot for Rosa 'Red Wing' is in a garden space where sunlight is abundant throughout the day. Avoid planting in areas with heavy shade or where buildings or trees might block the sun for extended periods.
- Temperature
Roses thrive in a range of temperatures, but Rosa 'Red Wing' prefers a zone where temperatures stay between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum winter temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit but may need protection from harsher frosts. The ideal temperature range promotes healthy growth and abundant blooming.
- Pruning
Prune Rosa 'Red Wing' in late winter or early spring, just as new growth begins. Pruning is essential to remove dead or diseased wood and to shape the plant for a more robust growth season. It should be done annually to encourage healthy blooms. The best time for heavy pruning is while the plant is dormant, but deadheading spent flowers can be done throughout the blooming season to promote further blooming.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
The best soil mix for the Red Wing Rose should be well-draining with a good balance of loam, peat, and organic compost to provide nutrients. A pH of 6.0 to 6.5 is ideal for this rose variety to thrive.
- Repotting
Red Wing Roses, being garden plants, do not typically require repotting. Instead, they should be planted in a permanent location where they can grow undisturbed.
- Humidity & Misting
Red Wing Roses do not have specific humidity requirements; they adapt to the average outdoor humidity levels in the environment where they are planted.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
For indoor Red Wing Roses, ensure a sunny spot, water deeply but infrequently.
Outdoor
Plant Red Wing Roses in a sunny, well-draining area with ample space.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
- Life cycle
The Red Wing Rose begins its life as a seed or more commonly from grafting or cuttings, initiating the germination or rooting phase which requires warmth, moisture, and soil. Once the roots are established, the seedling or new shoot enters the vegetative stage, where it produces stems and leaves, relying on photosynthesis for growth. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering stage, typically in late spring to early summer, producing distinctive red blooms that attract pollinators. Following pollination, the flowers develop into rose hips (fruit) during the fruiting stage, which contain seeds for dispersal, though cultivated varieties are often propagated vegetatively. Over time, the plant enters a period of dormancy, particularly in colder climates, where growth ceases temporarily during the winter months. The Red Wing Rose repeats the seasonal growth cycle annually, with proper care including pruning, it can have a lifespan of several years or even decades in the garden environment.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Red Wing rose (Rosa 'Red Wing' (S)) is by cuttings. This technique is often employed during late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing and the stems are green and flexible. Semi-hardwood cuttings, taken from the current year's growth, should be about six to eight inches (15 to 20 cm) long, and all but the top few leaves should be removed to reduce water loss. The cut end of the cutting can be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development, and then it is planted in a pot filled with a mixture of peat and perlite or sand to provide good drainage. The pot should be kept in a warm, humid environment by covering it with a plastic bag or placing it in a greenhouse, and the soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Roots typically develop in several weeks to a few months, after which the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots or garden beds to continue growing.