Canary Bird Rose Rosa xanthina 'Canary Bird' (S)
ABOUT
The Canary Bird rose is a flower that captivates with its early blooms and graceful appearance. This plant is adorned with unique, arching stems that are covered in a lush green foliage. When spring arrives, the plant becomes a visual spectacle with its vibrant yellow blossoms. Each flower is composed of delicate, soft petals that fan out from the center, producing a light and airy effect. This soft yellow hue is reminiscent of the gentle warmth of sunshine and creates a cheerful ambiance in any garden setting. The flowers are single, meaning each bloom tends to have a simple layer of petals, which contributes to their subtle elegance. The leaves of the Canary Bird rose have a soft, matte texture, creating a beautiful contrast with the glossy sheen of the petals. As the season progresses, the blossoms may pale to a lighter shade, giving a soft and pastel appearance to the plant. This rose is a visual treat that brings a touch of soft, yellow brightness to any landscape where it is planted.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Canary Bird Rose
Common names
Rosa xanthina 'Canary Bird'
- Toxicity
To humans
Rosa xanthina 'Canary Bird', commonly known as Canary Bird Rose, is not considered toxic to humans. In general, rose plants are regarded as safe and are not known to cause poisoning if ingested. While eating large quantities of rose petals might cause stomach upset due to the fibrous plant material, roses do not contain any known toxic substances that would cause poisoning or serious harm to humans.
To pets
Canary Bird Rose is similarly non-toxic for pets, including dogs and cats. The plant does not contain any substances that are known to be harmful if ingested by pets. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion of large quantities could potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, simply due to the ingestion of non-digestible material. But it does not cause serious poisoning or severe health consequences for pets.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters)
Spread
4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
China
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Ornamental Value: 'Canary Bird' is valued for its abundant, yellow flowers that provide a bright display in spring.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers offer an early source of nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinating insects.
- Landscape Use: Suitable for shrub borders, hedges, and as a specimen plant in landscape design.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care and is relatively drought-resistant, making it suitable for low-maintenance gardens.
- Hardy: It is a hardy shrub capable of withstanding cold temperatures, which makes it suitable for a variety of climates.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers early spring interest in the garden before many other plants have started to bloom.
- Easy Propagation: Can be easily propagated from cuttings, allowing gardeners to create more plants for use in other areas of the garden or to share with others.
- Attractive Foliage: In addition to its flowers, the fern-like foliage adds texture and interest to the garden throughout the growing season.
- Medical Properties
- Sedative effects - The petals of the Canary Bird might be used in traditional medicine for their mild sedative properties.
- Skin health - The rosewater or oil produced from the petals may be applied to the skin for its potential anti-inflammatory and soothing effects.
- Vitamin C source - Rose hips from various Rosa species, including Canary Bird, can be high in vitamin C and used to support immune health.
- Antioxidants - The plant may contain antioxidants, which contribute to reducing oxidative stress in the body.
- Astringent properties - Rose petals or hips are traditionally used for their astringent properties to tighten and tone the skin.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- The brightly colored petals of 'Canary Bird' can be used to make natural dyes for fabrics, giving textiles a soft yellow hue.
- The plant's strong, flexible canes can be used in basket weaving to create durable and decorative items.
- Petals from the 'Canary Bird' can be added to potpourris to contribute a gentle fragrance and a splash of color.
- The rose hips that develop after the flowering season can be used in craft projects as natural beads or added to wreaths and garlands.
- Floral arrangements often benefit from the inclusion of 'Canary Bird' stems for their vibrant color and unique shape.
- The thorny stems can be utilized as natural fencing or barriers in gardens to deter animals and pests.
- Culinary enthusiasts sometimes use the rose petals to infuse sugars or syrups for a floral touch in desserts and drinks.
- The wood from pruned branches can be utilized as mulch to help with soil moisture retention and weed suppression in gardens.
- Photographers and artists may use the 'Canary Bird' as an inspiring subject for their works due to its distinctive appearance.
- Educational settings can use the plant for teaching about pollination and plant growth, as roses are classic examples in botany studies.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Yellow Rose is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Yellow Rose is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Love: As a member of the Rose family, 'Canary Bird' symbolizes love, which is deeply rooted in the historical significance of roses.
- Beauty: This plant, with its beautiful yellow blooms, represents the universal notion of beauty and aesthetic appreciation.
- Friendship: The yellow color of the 'Canary Bird' rose is commonly associated with friendship and joyous feelings.
- Optimism and Joy: The bright yellow hue of this rose suggests positivity, optimism, and the presence of joy in one's life.
- Infatuation: Roses often connote a deep affection and the 'Canary Bird's' early spring blossoming can signify the blossoming of new love or infatuation.
- Water
The Golden Rose of China should be watered deeply once a week, providing about 1-2 gallons of water each time to ensure that moisture reaches the root zone. During hot and dry periods, the frequency may need to increase to twice per week. During the winter months or rainy seasons, reduce watering to prevent waterlogging, as the rose will require less water. Always check the soil moisture level before watering; the top inch of soil should be dry to the touch.
- Light
Golden Rose of China thrives in full sunlight, needing at least six hours of direct sun daily. It is best to place the plant in a location where it can receive morning sun and some afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates, to prevent scorching.
- Temperature
Golden Rose of China prefers temperate climates with temperatures ranging between 60-75°F for optimal growth. It can survive temperature drops down to around 20°F but prolonged exposure to cold can damage the plant. Conversely, this rose can handle high temperatures as long as it is well-watered.
- Pruning
Prune the Golden Rose of China to maintain its shape and to remove dead or diseased wood. This encourages healthy growth and better air circulation within the plant. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before the plant breaks dormancy. Prune lightly, as this rose blooms on old wood; excessive pruning can reduce flowering.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
The Canary Bird Rose thrives in a well-draining soil mix with loam, peat, and sand, rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal for optimal growth.
- Repotting
The Canary Bird Rose typically does not require frequent repotting and should only be repotted if it becomes root-bound in its container. Every 2-4 years is usually sufficient for this species.
- Humidity & Misting
The Canary Bird Rose prefers average ambient humidity levels, as too much humidity can promote fungal diseases. This plant is not particularly humidity-demanding, so it can adapt to the natural humidity of most temperate climates.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Ensure sufficient light, avoid overwatering, and maintain moderate humidity.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, ensure good air circulation, and protect from severe winters.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
- Life cycle
The Rosa xanthina 'Canary Bird', commonly known as Canary Bird Rose, begins its life cycle when a seed germinates in suitable soil, requiring ample sunlight and well-drained conditions. After germination, the seedling emerges and grows, developing a root system and foliage, eventually forming a shrub through vegetative growth. This deciduous shrub then enters a phase of maturity where it produces distinctive yellow flowers in late spring, which are pollinated by insects, leading to the formation of hips (fruit) containing seeds. Following pollination and through summer, the hips mature and, once ripened, drop to the ground or are carried away by wildlife, initiating new cycles of seed dispersal and germination. The Canary Bird Rose then undergoes a period of dormancy during the colder winter months, shedding its leaves and conserving energy. With the return of warmer spring temperatures, the plant breaks dormancy and resumes its growth cycle, completing the annual rhythm of its life.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring
Propogation: The 'Canary Bird' Rose, a variant of Rosa xanthina, is commonly propagated in late winter or early spring before the onset of new growth, when the plant is still dormant. The most popular method of propagation for this shrub is by softwood cuttings. This involves taking cuttings of new, flexible growth that has not yet fully matured, typically about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long, from healthy plants. The lower leaves are removed from the cutting, and the cut end is often dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The prepared cuttings are then placed in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring at least two nodes are buried where leaves were removed. The cuttings need to be kept in high humidity and warm temperature conditions until they have rooted, which may take several weeks. Careful monitoring for moisture levels and the prevention of fungal diseases are crucial for successful propagation.