Mary Rose Rosa Mary Rose = 'Ausmary' (S)
ABOUT
The Rosa 'Mary Rose' is a charming shrub known for its delightful flowers and appealing form. This rose variety bears a profusion of blooms that boast a classic cupped shape, typical of old roses, which lends a quaint and nostalgic feel to the plant's appearance. The flowers emerge with a soft pink hue, a gentle and warm color that is soothing to the eye. Each bloom is densely packed with delicate petals, arranged in a rosette pattern, revealing layer upon layer as they unfurl from the tight buds. The petals have slightly ruffled edges, which add a touch of whimsy and a textural contrast to the otherwise smooth foliage. Speaking of the foliage, the leaves are a deep green, with a glossy and leathery texture that serves as the perfect backdrop for the pastel blossoms. The foliage's rich color further accentuates the soft pink of the flowers, creating a harmonious visual blend of color and form. As the flowers mature, they may exhibit a subtle hint of a golden stamen at their heart, peeking through the fluffy petals, adding depth and interest to each flower. The overall impression of the Mary Rose is one rich in romance and elegance, making it a treasured specimen in any garden setting where it conveys a sense of time-honored beauty and charm. The shrub itself is bushy and well-branched, allowing for a generous display of blooms that cover the plant, creating a bouquet-like effect. Though the size is not the focus of this description, the plant has a naturally attractive shape that only enhances its ornamental value. It is a beloved choice for gardeners seeking a rose with both visual and aromatic appeal, as the blooms emit a pleasant, classic rose fragrance that can perfume the air and invite visitors to linger nearby.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Mary Rose
Common names
Rosa 'Ausmary'.
- Toxicity
To humans
The Rosa Mary Rose, commonly known as the English Rose, is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects from ingesting the petals, leaves, or hips of this plant. Roses are sometimes used in culinary applications, and their petals are edible when they haven't been treated with pesticides or other chemicals. However, it's important to note that the thorns on rose bushes can cause physical injury if not handled with care.
To pets
The English Rose is not typically toxic to pets. Dogs and cats can occasionally chew on the leaves or petals without serious risk of poisoning. However, as with humans, the thorns can cause physical injuries, and it's always best to prevent pets from chewing on plants to avoid any potential stomach upset from ingesting plant material that their bodies are not used to digesting.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
4 feet (1.2 meters)
Spread
4 feet (1.2 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Aesthetic Appeal: Rosa 'Mary Rose' offers gorgeous pink blooms which enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Fragrance: The flowers emit a delightful, classic rose fragrance, contributing to a sensorially rich garden environment.
- Attracts Pollinators: It attracts beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, promoting pollination of garden plants.
- Versatility in Landscaping: Suitable for borders, hedges, and as a stand-alone specimen, this rose allows for versatile garden design.
- Repeated Blooming: Capable of producing flowers from late spring to fall, providing a long season of interest.
- Hardiness: Demonstrates resilience to various garden conditions and is hardy in many 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
- Edible petals: The petals of the rose can be used to flavor foods and make herbal teas, adding a subtle floral aroma and a hint of sweetness.
- Floral water: Rosewater made from the petals can be used in cooking to impart fragrance to dishes or as a natural skin toner.
- Natural dye: The petals contain natural pigments that can be used to dye fabrics or homemade cosmetics a light pink color.
- Aromatherapy: The essential oil extracted from the rose has a calming effect and can be used in aromatherapy to reduce stress.
- Decorative garnishes: Fresh or dried rose petals can be used as an elegant garnish on desserts or salads.
- Floral crafts: Roses can be dried and incorporated into potpourri, wreaths, or other floral crafts for decoration.
- Culinary syrup: Petals can be steeped in sugar and water to make a rose-flavored syrup for use in beverages or as a sweetener.
- Bath additives: Dried rose petals can be added to bath bombs or salts for a fragrant and relaxing bath experience.
- Companion planting: Roses can help deter pests when planted among vegetables and can attract beneficial insects to the garden.
- Natural confetti: Dried petals can be used as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional confetti at celebrations.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The rose is often used in Feng Shui to attract love and create a positive, loving energy in the home. It can be placed in the Southwest area of the garden or home to enhance romance and relationship luck.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The rose is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Love: As a member of the rose family, the Mary Rose symbolizes love, which is a universal meaning associated with roses. It can represent deep affection and romantic love.
- Beauty: Roses are often associated with beauty, and the Mary Rose, with its elegant appearance, is no exception. It is a symbol of inner and outer beauty.
- Devotion: The Mary Rose can signify devotion, expressing a deep and committed attachment to someone or something.
- Honor: Naming it 'Mary' often ties it to the Virgin Mary, who is a symbol of honor and moral impeccability in many cultures.
- Purity: Similarly, association with the Virgin Mary also imbues the rose with symbolism of purity and innocence.
- Secret Keeper: Historically, roses have been a symbol of confidentiality—the term "sub rosa" indicates a conversation that is meant to be kept secret.
- Passion: The rich color of the Mary Rose petals is commonly linked with passion and strong emotions.
- Timelessness: Roses have ancient roots and have remained popular over centuries, thus they symbolize timelessness and continuity.
- Water
For the English Rose 'Mary Rose', water deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water which is roughly 0.6 gallons for each bush. During hot or dry weather, increase watering to twice per week. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Water early in the morning to allow the foliage to dry out during the day, which helps prevent disease. Avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk of leaf diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant.
- Light
English Roses like 'Mary Rose' thrive best in full sunlight, meaning they should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun per day. The ideal spot would be in an area that gets morning sunlight and is sheltered from the strongest afternoon sun to prevent petal burn. They can tolerate some light shade, particularly in hotter regions, but too much shade will hinder bloom production and can lead to an increase in disease.
- Temperature
The 'Mary Rose' English Rose prefers temperate conditions and typically does well in areas with temperatures between 50°F and 75°F. While roses are resilient and can survive temperatures as low as 20°F in winter dormancy and as high as 90°F in full bloom, it’s during the moderate range that they will flourish. Ensure that cold winter winds or late spring frosts do not damage the plant by offering protection if temperatures are expected to fall near or below the minimum tolerance range.
- Pruning
Pruning the 'Mary Rose' English Rose is important for health and to encourage blooming. Prune in the spring just as the buds begin to swell, removing dead or weak wood and shaping the plant. Thin out the center to allow for good air circulation. Prune again lightly after each bloom cycle to remove spent flowers and encourage repeat flowering. The best time for major pruning is late winter or early spring.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
The best soil mix for the English Rose (Mary Rose) is one that is rich in organic matter with good drainage. A mix of one-third compost, one-third garden soil, and one-third peat or coarse sand works well. Adjust the pH to between 6.0 and 7.0 for optimal growth.
- Repotting
English Roses like 'Mary Rose' are typically planted in the garden rather than in pots, so repotting is not generally required. However, if the rose is container-grown, repotting every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container is advisable.
- Humidity & Misting
English Roses such as the 'Mary Rose' are not overly sensitive to humidity; typical outdoor conditions are generally sufficient. They do not require high humidity; ambient humidity levels of 40-60% are suitable for healthy growth.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
For 'Mary Rose', ensure bright indirect light, good airflow, regular watering.
Outdoor
Plant 'Mary Rose' in full sun, enrich soil with compost, ensure drainage.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
- Life cycle
The Rosa 'Mary Rose' (Shrub Rose) begins its life cycle with seed germination, although as a cultivated variety it is more commonly propagated by cuttings or grafting. Once roots establish, the plant enters a vegetative stage characterized by the growth of canes, leaves, and thorns. As the shrub matures, it forms buds that bloom into fragrant pink flowers, typically from late spring through to autumn in repeated flushes. After pollination, these flowers may develop into rose hips (fruit) containing seeds, although breeding often makes these seeds non-viable. As a perennial, the rose enters a dormant phase in winter, where growth slows down and it may shed leaves in colder climates. With proper care and pruning, the Rosa 'Mary Rose' continues this cycle yearly, potentially living for decades and growing up to 4 feet tall and wide.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Rosa 'Mary Rose' (commonly known as the English Rose), a variety named 'Ausmary', is often propagated via softwood cuttings. This method is typically done in late spring or early summer when new growth is still somewhat flexible. To propagate, a cutting approximately 5 to 9 inches (12 to 23 cm) long is taken from a healthy, disease-free branch, making sure it includes several sets of leaves. The bottom leaves are removed and the cut end is often dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The prepared cutting is then inserted into a mixture of moistened potting soil and perlite or sand to provide adequate drainage. It's important to keep the cutting in a warm, well-lit area out of direct sunlight to avoid drying out. A plastic cover can help maintain humidity until roots develop, typically within several weeks, after which the cutting can be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions.