Ispahan Rose Rosa 'Ispahan' (D)
ABOUT
The Rosa 'Ispahan', often known simply as Ispahan, is an antique rose with a rich history and a beautiful presentation. Its blooms are a deep pink hue, exuding an old-world charm that captivates garden enthusiasts and casual observers alike. The flowers, which bloom in an abundance, exude a delightful fragrance that is both intense and sweet, reminiscent of damask roses. These blossoms tend to be large and double, meaning that each flower is full of layers of velvety petals that form a cupped shape. This luscious display of petals makes the Ispahan rose a romantic and showy plant, perfect for a garden centerpiece or as part of a floral border. The foliage of the Ispahan rose is also worthy of note, with leaves that are a rich green color, providing a perfect backdrop for the stunning pink flowers and enhancing their visual impact. The leaves tend to be matte rather than glossy, which adds to the plant's antique and natural look. This plant is known to produce flowering clusters that create a bouquet-like effect, making its presence known even from a distance. These clusters of flowers adorn the bush in such a way that the plant appears to be almost entirely covered in blooms during the peak flowering season. Overall, the Ispahan rose is a plant that exudes both beauty and fragrance, with captivating pink flowers and lush green foliage that make it a prized addition to any garden where a display of timeless elegance and sensory pleasure is desired.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Ispahan Rose, Persian Rose, Damask Rose
Common names
Rosa 'Ispahan'
ToxicityTo humans
The Damask rose is not considered toxic to humans. In fact, parts of the rose, such as the petals, are often used in culinary applications and for their fragrance. However, ingesting large quantities of any non-food plant can potentially lead to stomach upset or discomfort simply due to the fibrous plant material. Always exercise caution and consult with a professional before consuming any plant material.
To pets
The Damask rose is not known to be toxic to pets. However, the thorns can cause physical injury if a pet were to try to eat the branches, and some pets might experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume part of the rose. It is always best to prevent pets from chewing on plants to avoid the risk of injury or digestive issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
4-8 feet (1.2-2.4 meters)
Spread
3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Middle East
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Rosa 'Ispahan', commonly known as Damask Rose, is renowned for its beautiful, large, and fragrant pink flowers that add visual splendor to any garden.
- Landscape Use: This plant is ideal for use in rose gardens, mixed borders, and as a specimen plant due to its attractive form and color.
- Cultural Significance: Damask Rose has historical significance and has been celebrated in literature and art, providing an element of tradition and romance to gardens.
- Wildlife Attraction: These roses can attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies to the garden, which are important for pollination.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms of the Damask Rose are perfect for cut flower arrangements, allowing for the enjoyment of their beauty indoors.
- Fragrance: The rich and enchanting scent of the flowers is ideal for creating a sensory experience in the garden or in floral displays inside the home.
- Durability: Rosa 'Ispahan' is known for its hardiness and can perform well in a variety of soil conditions and climates with proper care.
- Long Blooming Period: This rose variety has a lengthy blooming season, which ensures the presence of flowers and color in the garden for an extended time.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Roses are traditionally used for their anti-inflammatory properties in various preparations, which can help soothe irritated skin.
- Antioxidant: Rose petals contain antioxidants that may help protect cells from damage by free radicals.
- Skin health: Rose extracts are often used in skincare products for their potential to promote healthy skin, thanks to their astringent and moisturizing characteristics.
- Aromatherapy: The fragrance of roses, including the 'Ispahan' variety, is used in aromatherapy to help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
- Antibacterial: Rose extracts may possess antibacterial properties that can be beneficial in treating minor infections, especially of the skin.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Culinary Garnish: The petals of the Ispahan rose can be used to add a touch of elegance as an edible garnish on cakes and desserts.
- Rose Water Production: The Damascus rose is traditionally used for making rose water, which is often used in Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisine.
- Perfumery: The strong and captivating fragrance of the Ispahan rose makes it a valuable component in the manufacture of high-quality perfumes.
- Aromatherapy: The essential oil derived from Ispahan roses is employed in aromatherapy practices for its purported relaxing and mood-enhancing properties.
- Potpourri: Dried Ispahan petals are popular in the creation of potpourri mixtures, providing a long-lasting natural fragrance to living spaces.
- Artisanal Crafts: The petals can be used in the creation of homemade paper or embedded within candles for added visual and aromatic appeal.
- Bath Additive: Dried petals or rosewater from the Ispahan can be added to bathwater for a fragrant and indulgent bathing experience.
- Natural Clothing Dye: The petals can be boiled to extract a natural dye, which could be used to color fabrics or fibers.
- Floral Displays: The Ispahan rose's large blooms and vibrant color make it a sought-after choice for flower arrangements and wedding bouquets.
- Photography Prop: The striking beauty of the Ispahan rose makes it a popular subject for photographers, particularly in the realm of botanical photography.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Damask rose is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Damask rose is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love: The Rosa 'Ispahan', commonly known as the Damask rose, historically symbolizes deep love and passion. The intoxicating fragrance and the deep pink color are often associated with heartfelt emotions and romantic declarations.
- Beauty: Because of its stunning blooms and classic form, the Damask rose represents beauty and grace. It often stands for the ideal of perfection and inner and outer beauty.
- Devotion: This plant is also indicative of commitment and fidelity. Giving a Damask rose can be a gesture that signifies a lifelong dedication to someone you care deeply about.
- Secrets: The Damask rose has been used as a symbol for secrecy. In Roman times, a wild rose would be placed on the door of a room where confidential matters were being discussed.
WaterThe Damascus Rose requires regular watering to maintain evenly moist soil, especially during its growth season in spring and summer. Typically, this means watering deeply once or twice a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons per plant each time, depending on climate conditions and soil type. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water more frequently, while in cooler, rainy weather, you can water less often. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering again. Avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases, and instead, use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the base of the plant.
LightThe Damascus Rose thrives best in full sun conditions, receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for this rose is an area that gets bright morning sun and some partial shade in the hottest part of the afternoon, particularly in regions with very intense sunlight. Avoid overly shaded areas, as insufficient light can lead to poor blooming and increase susceptibility to pests and diseases.
TemperatureThe Damascus Rose is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, ideally flourishing between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit but requires protection from frost. During the winter, mulching around the base can help to maintain consistent soil temperatures and protect the roots from extreme cold.
PruningPruning the Damascus Rose is essential for encouraging vigorous growth and abundant blooming. Prune in late winter or early spring, removing dead or weak canes, shaping the plant, and opening up the center to increase air circulation. Prune again lightly after the main bloom period to encourage a second flush of flowers in certain climates. Always use clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Rosa 'Ispahan', or Damask Rose, should be rich in organic matter with good drainage. A mix comprising two parts loam, one part peat moss or well-rotted compost, and one part sand or perlite is ideal. The Damask Rose prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingDamask Roses are typically outdoor plants and do not require repotting as they are planted directly into the ground. If planted in containers, repotting should occur when the plant outgrows its current pot, which is generally every 2 to 3 years.
Humidity & MistingDamask Roses thrive in moderate humidity conditions. They do not require high humidity levels; average ambient humidity is sufficient for healthy growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, good airflow, and room to grow.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, amend soil with compost, water deeply.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the 'Ispahan' rose, also known as Rosa 'Ispahan', begins with seed germination, although commercial propagation often involves cuttings or grafting. Upon sprouting, the seedling grows into a young plant with a strong root system and foliage. As the plant matures, it develops canes that bear foliage and eventually flower buds. The buds blossom into the characteristic fragrant, pink double flowers of the 'Ispahan' in late spring to early summer. After pollination, which can involve insects or wind, the flowers may produce hips (seed pods) that can be used to propagate new plants. The 'Ispahan' rose goes through a period of dormancy in the winter, during which growth pauses until conditions become favorable again in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Summer
The Rosa 'Ispahan', also known as the Ispahan rose, is often propagated by softwood cuttings. This process is commonly done in late spring or early summer when the new growth is still green and flexible. A cutting, usually around 6 to 8 inches (15-20 cm) in length, is taken from a healthy stem with at least two leaf nodes. The leaves on the lower half are removed, and the cut end is often dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The prepared cutting is then placed in well-draining soil, ensuring at least one node is below the surface. Adequate humidity and warmth are essential, so the pot is often covered with a plastic bag or placed in a propagator to maintain a moist environment. Root development typically takes several weeks, after which the new Ispahan rose plant can be gradually acclimated to less humid conditions before eventual planting out.
