Cardinal de Richelieu Rose Rosa 'Cardinal de Richelieu' (G)
ABOUT
The Rosa 'Cardinal de Richelieu' is commonly known as a rose. This rose is distinguished by its beautiful and densely packed petals, which take on a deep purple hue, sometimes appearing almost black in certain lights. The blooms are rich and velvety in texture, creating an opulent and dramatic display in any garden setting. Each flower possesses a classic, old-fashioned cupped form, adding to its overall romantic and historical charm. The leaves are a lush, dark green that contrasts strikingly with the dark purple of the flowers, creating a visually striking plant. The foliage is typically matte rather than glossy, with a leathery texture that is robust and adds to the plant's healthy appearance. Throughout its blooming season, this rose will commonly produce clusters of these sumptuous flowers, which can be appreciated for their captivating fragrance. The scent of the Rosa 'Cardinal de Richelieu' leans towards the traditional rose aroma, which can be described as sweet and rich, an attribute that enhances the sensory experience of the garden. Before and after flowering, the bush is adorned with attractive buds that are also tinted with deep purple, hinting at the beauty that is to unfold. This rose, with its striking flowers and scent, is often used in gardens for ornamental purposes and can be an excellent choice for creating a focal point due to its unique and deeply colored blooms.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Cardinal de Richelieu Rose, Rose 'Cardinal de Richelieu'
Common names
Rosa 'Cardinal de Richelieu'.
ToxicityTo humans
Rose plants, including the 'Cardinal de Richelieu' rose, are generally not considered toxic to humans. They are widely grown in gardens and used for their flowers without any significant risk of poisoning. There are no well-documented cases of serious toxicity from ingesting parts of a rose plant in humans. However, some people may develop mild stomach upset if they consume rose petals, leaves, or hips in large quantities. Additionally, the thorns can cause physical injury if not handled properly.
To pets
Roses, such as the 'Cardinal de Richelieu' rose, are not toxic to pets. They are safe for dogs, cats, and other domestic animals to be around, and there is no significant risk of poisoning if a pet ingests parts of a rose plant. However, as with humans, ingestion of large quantities of rose material may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets. Also, care should be taken to prevent injuries from the thorns, which can cause physical harm if an animal tries to chew on the stems or gets tangled in the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters)
Spread
4 feet (1.2 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal - Rosa 'Cardinal de Richelieu' is known for its beautiful lush purple flowers that add a stunning visual element to any garden.
- Pollinator Attraction - The flowers provide nectar that attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, promoting biodiversity.
- Fragrance - The plant emits a pleasant scent, which can enhance the sensory experience of a garden or landscape.
- Habitat for Wildlife - Birds and other small animals may use rose bushes for protection and nesting.
- Privacy - When grown as a hedge or barrier, Rosa 'Cardinal de Richelieu' can provide privacy and reduce noise pollution.
- Erosion Control - The root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion in the garden.
- Symbolism - Roses are often associated with love and passion, making them ideal for thematic gardens or as meaningful gifts.
- Versatility - Suitable for various garden designs, including formal, cottage, or even as a solitary specimen plant.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Some compounds in roses like Rosa 'Cardinal de Richelieu' are thought to have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Antioxidant: Rose petals can have a high level of antioxidants, which may help in preventing cellular damage.
- Antibacterial: Rose extracts have been known to have antibacterial properties against certain strains of bacteria.
- Aromatherapy: The fragrance of roses is used in aromatherapy for psychological and emotional well-being.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Rose 'Cardinal de Richelieu' petals can be used to make natural dyes for fabrics, providing hues ranging from soft pinks to deep purples depending on the concentration and fabric treatment.
- The strong fragrance of the rose can be captured in homemade potpourris, combining dried petals with other aromatic herbs to create a pleasant room freshener.
- Dried rose petals from the 'Cardinal de Richelieu' can serve as bookmarks, offering a delicate scent and a personal touch to one's reading experience.
- These roses can be rendered into a natural ink for artistic purposes, lending its color to unique watercolor paintings or calligraphy.
- Petals can be incorporated into homemade papers, providing an attractive floral accent and texture to the finished product.
- For a romantic ambiance, fresh petals can be scattered over beds or float in baths, creating a luxurious and visually appealing setting.
- Using the essence of the roses, homemade candles or soaps can encapsulate the scent, offering handcrafted personal care items with a personal touch.
- Rose 'Cardinal de Richelieu' can be used to decorate cakes or desserts with candied petals, offering an edible and elegant garnish.
- The thorns of the rose can be carefully harvested and used as natural needles or pins in traditional crafts or the creation of primitive tools.
- The rose hips, which are the fruit of the rose plant, can be used in the kitchen as a natural pectin source when making jams or jellies.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Rose is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Rose is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love and Desire: As with most roses, the Cardinal de Richelieu rose represents love. The deep purple color traditionally symbolizes deep emotion and often an unconscious beauty.
- Mystery and Intrigue: Dark-hued roses like the Cardinal de Richelieu can also signify mystery or the anticipation of a secret encounter, perhaps alluding to the clandestine affairs of the historic Cardinal Richelieu.
- Royalty and Majesty: The rich, regal coloring of the rose is often associated with royalty and symbolizes nobility, splendor, and majesty, reflecting the grandeur of historical royal courts.
- Devotion and Enthusiasm: A Cardinal de Richelieu rose may express an eager and keen devotion due to its vibrant hue that stands out distinctly in a garden.
- Spirituality and Transformation: The cardinal in its name also suggests a spiritual connotation, with the rose perhaps signifying transformative experiences or profound insights.
WaterCardinal de Richelieu roses should be watered deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water each time, which equates to roughly 0.623 gallons for each rose bush. In hot or windy weather, the frequency may increase to twice per week. The best method is to water at the base of the plant, early in the morning, to allow the foliage to dry before nightfall and to encourage deep root growth. During winter or in periods of rain, reduce watering to prevent waterlogging. Always ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged to avoid root rot.
LightThe Cardinal de Richelieu rose thrives in full sun, meaning it requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and bloom production. Planting it in a spot that gets morning light is ideal as it helps dry dew from the leaves, reducing the risk of disease. Avoid intense afternoon sun in regions with very hot climates, as it may stress the plant.
TemperatureCardinal de Richelieu roses perform best in a temperature range between 70°F to 90°F during their growing season. They can survive in temperatures as low as 20°F during their dormant period, but temperatures below that may damage the plant. Ideally, protect the plant with mulch or coverings if severe frost is expected.
PruningPruning Cardinal de Richelieu roses is necessary to maintain their shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and to encourage new growth and blooming. Prune in late winter or early spring, just before new growth starts, removing any dead branches and thinning the plant to improve air circulation. Prune about one-third of the oldest canes to the ground to promote vigorous new growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCardinal de Richelieu roses thrive in well-draining loamy soil enriched with organic matter. A pH of 6.0 to 6.5 is ideal for these roses. Mix in compost and aged manure to increase fertility.
RepottingCardinal de Richelieu roses, being garden plants, are not typically repotted. Instead, they may require transplanting every few years if they outgrow their space or to refresh the soil.
Humidity & MistingCardinal de Richelieu roses do not require high humidity and will generally thrive in the ambient outdoor humidity levels, without specific adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure ample light, well-draining soil, and proper airflow for health.
Outdoor
Choose sunlit area, well-draining, fertile soil, and monitor for pests.
Hardiness zone
The Cardinal de Richelieu rose is suitable for USDA zones 5-9.
Life cycleThe life of the 'Cardinal de Richelieu' rose begins with germination, where the seed emerges from dormancy and sprouts roots and shoots when exposed to suitable conditions. This is followed by the seedling stage where the young plant develops true leaves and begins to photosynthesize, gradually maturing into a vegetative state. As the plant grows, it enters the vegetative stage, during which it develops a strong root system, foliage, and stems in preparation for flowering. Once mature enough, the rose plant enters the flowering stage, producing the characteristic deep purple to mauve blossoms that are often fragrant. After pollination, which may be assisted by insects or wind, it proceeds to the fruiting stage where it develops hips, the seed-bearing structures, which mature and eventually release seeds for the next generation. Throughout its lifetime, 'Cardinal de Richelieu' undergoes cycles of growth, flowering, and dormancy, typically with a period of reduced activity in winter in temperate climates, after which the cycle starts anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter-early spring
The Rosa 'Cardinal de Richelieu', commonly known as the Cardinal de Richelieu rose, can be propagated by hardwood cuttings, which is a popular method for many rose varieties. For this rose, the ideal time to take hardwood cuttings is in late fall or early winter when the plant is dormant. A cutting should be about 6 to 8 inches long and contain at least 3 buds. The lower end of the cutting should be sliced just below a bud, and the top just above a bud to maximize the potential for growth. One-third to half of the cutting should be buried in a mix of equal parts sand and peat or a well-drained soil mixture, ensuring at least one bud is above the soil surface. To maintain a humid environment and encourage root development, the cutting can be covered with a plastic bag or placed in a greenhouse. It can take several weeks to months for the cutting to root, after which it can be transplanted to its permanent location.
