Penelope Rose Rosa 'Penelope' (HM)
ABOUT
The Rosa 'Penelope' is a type of rose that boasts beautiful clusters of flowers. The blossoms are semi-double to double and present a modest number of petals which are soft and rounded, giving them a slightly fluffy appearance. The color of Penelope roses is particularly enchanting, as the petals exhibit a warm, creamy pink hue that may fade to a softer, almost white or cream tone as they mature. The center of the flowers often shows a hint of yellow, which comes from the stamens that can be visible in semi-double forms. The leaves of the Rosa 'Penelope' are a glossy, rich green, creating an attractive backdrop that highlights the delicate color of the blossoms. This contrasts the plant's dense and bushy foliage, which fills out the plant and provides a lush, green canvas throughout the blooming season. The foliage may also have a slightly leathery texture, which is common among rose varieties. As for thorns, as with most roses, they are to be expected along the stems, serving as a defense mechanism for the plant. In terms of its overall form, the Rosa 'Penelope' falls into a category of roses that exhibit a shrub-like habit, presenting a rounded and graceful silhouette. This structure supports the generous flowering branches which can give the plant a romantic and cascading appearance, especially when in full bloom. The flowers also are known for their delightful fragrance, which adds to the overall appeal of the plant, enveloping the surrounding area with a sweet and classic rose aroma that encourages closer inspection and enjoyment.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Penelope Rose, Hybrid Musk Rose
Common names
Rosa 'Penelope' (HM)
ToxicityTo humans
The Penelope Rose is not considered toxic to humans. However, plant parts, especially the thorns, can cause physical injury if not handled with care. Ingesting any part of this plant is not typically associated with poisoning symptoms, but it's always advisable to avoid consuming plant material that is not meant for consumption.
To pets
The Penelope Rose is also not toxic to pets. Similar to humans, the primary concern is the physical threat from thorns which can cause injury to pets. Ingestion of rose petals or leaves, while not recommended, does not usually lead to poisoning in pets. However, it is always wise to prevent pets from eating ornamental plants as they might cause gastrointestinal upset.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters)
Spread
4 feet (1.2 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Rosa 'Penelope' produces attractive semi-double flowers, which enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Fragrance: The flowers emit a pleasant fragrance, contributing to a sensual garden experience.
- Attracts Pollinators: This variety of rose is known to attract bees and other beneficial insects, supporting biodiversity.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms are suitable for cutting and using in floral arrangements, bringing beauty indoors.
- Disease Resistance: Rosa 'Penelope' has a level of resistance to common rose diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Hardiness: It is a hardy plant capable of thriving in a variety of climate conditions with proper care.
- Long Blooming Period: This rose has a long flowering season, providing color and interest in the garden for an extended period.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Rosa 'Penelope' petals can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics and textiles, providing a range of pink shades depending on the concentration.
- Dried petals of the plant can serve as a component in potpourri mixtures to impart fragrance in rooms and small spaces.
- Extracts from the plant can be utilized in perfumery to capture the delicate scent of roses in fragrances and scented products.
- Rosa 'Penelope' hips (the fruit of the rose) can be a source of pectin, which is useful in making homemade jams and jellies.
- The petals of the plant can be candied or crystallized for decorative and edible garnishes in various culinary creations like cakes and desserts.
- These roses can be used in flower arrangements for weddings and other special events, not just for their beauty but also for their ability to last longer when cut.
- The essential oil derived from Rosa 'Penelope' can be incorporated into candles and soaps for adding a natural rose scent.
- Pressed and dried rosa 'Penelope' flowers can be used in crafting, such as creating bookmarks, greeting cards, or framed botanical art.
- The petals could be used in creating bath bombs and salts, offering a luxurious, rose-infused bathing experience.
- Rose water made from Rosa 'Penelope' petals can be employed as a natural flavoring agent in foods, desserts, and confectioneries.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe rose, which includes the variety 'Penelope', can be used in Feng Shui practices to promote love, healing, and positive chi flow, especially when placed in the Southwest area of a garden or home to enhance relationship luck.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe rose is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love: As a member of the rose family, Rosa 'Penelope' commonly symbolizes love, often connoting deep affection and romantic feelings.
- Beauty: Roses are traditionally associated with beauty, reflecting the aesthetic appeal of their lush, full blooms and captivating fragrance.
- Femininity: The delicate nature of Rosa 'Penelope' blooms can symbolize femininity and grace, qualities often tied to traditional female virtues.
- Honor: Giving a rose like 'Penelope' can be a gesture of honor, showing respect and admiration for someone.
- Devotion: The enduring nature of rose plants, which can bloom year after year, signifies devotion and emotional endurance in relationships.
- Secrecy: Historically, roses were a symbol of secrecy. A rose over a door or at a table meant that what was said under the influence of the rose was to remain confidential.
- New Beginnings: While not specific to Rosa 'Penelope', roses in general, especially when in bud form, can represent new beginnings and hope.
WaterFor the Hybrid Musk Rose, it's best to maintain consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Typically, watering deeply once a week with about 1 inch of water, which is approximately 0.6 gallons for a standard rose bush, is sufficient to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During hot or dry spells, you may need to increase the frequency to twice a week. It's crucial to water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Always check the soil moisture level before watering to ensure the rose does not become overwatered.
LightThe Hybrid Musk Rose thrives in full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. Ideally, it should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day for best flowering. An east- or south-facing spot is excellent for providing the necessary light conditions. However, in very hot climates, some afternoon shade can help protect the blooms and foliage from scorching.
TemperatureThe Hybrid Musk Rose is hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures, but grows best when daytime temperatures are between 70°F and 85°F. It can survive minimum winter temperatures down to about -10°F, but ensure good winter protection if temperatures drop this low. Ideal growth occurs when the temperature does not exceed 90°F for extended periods.
PruningPruning the Hybrid Musk Rose is important to maintain its shape, encourage new growth, and improve air circulation. Prune in late winter or early spring when the plant is dormant, removing dead or diseased wood and thinning out crowded areas. Also, cut back by about one-third of the previous year's growth to stimulate healthy new blooms. Deadheading throughout the blooming season can also promote more flowers.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Hybrid Musk rose 'Penelope' is well-drained loam rich in organic matter with a pH between 5.5 to 7.0. Amend the soil with compost and aged manure to enhance fertility.
RepottingHybrid Musk roses like 'Penelope' are typically not repotted as they are outdoor plants; instead, replace the mulch & topsoil annually to refresh nutrients.
Humidity & Misting'Penelope' roses prefer outdoor conditions with average ambient humidity and do not require specific humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensuring bright light and good air circulation is crucial for 'Penelope' roses.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun with well-draining soil and space for air flow.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleRosa 'Penelope', commonly known as Penelope Rose, begins its life as a seed, where, under the right conditions of soil, light, and moisture, it germinates and develops young shoots and roots. The seedling stage sees initial leaves and stem growth as the plant establishes itself. It then enters the vegetative stage, where it focuses on leaf and branch development, gradually maturing and increasing in size. The plant reaches maturity when it begins to flower and reproduce; the Penelope Rose typically produces pale pink to cream flowers from late spring to frost. After pollination, flowers develop into fruit known as hips, which contain seeds for the next generation. Finally, during the dormant stage in winter, Rosa 'Penelope' experiences a period of reduced activity where it conserves energy, before resuming its growth cycle in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter-early spring
Rosa 'Penelope', commonly known as the Penelope Rose, is best propagated through the process of semi-hardwood cuttings. This is typically done in the late summer after the blooms have faded and the stems are beginning to mature. A cutting should be about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) long, taken with a sharp, clean pruning tool to minimize damage. It's important to select a healthy piece of the shrub, ideally with several sets of leaves, and to remove the lower leaves before planting. The cut end of the stem can be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development and then it should be placed in a well-draining soil mix. Keeping the soil consistently moist but not soggy, and providing a humid environment by covering with a plastic bag or placing in a greenhouse, can help the cutting to root more efficiently. With proper care, roots typically develop within several weeks, and the new plants can be transferred to their permanent locations the following spring.
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