Rosemary Foster Rose Rosa 'Rosemary Foster' (Ra)
ABOUT
Rosa 'Rosemary Foster' is a cultivated variety of rose characterized by its distinctive flowers and foliage. The plant typically features lush green leaves with a glossy texture, which serve as a backdrop for its blooms. The flowers themselves are often quite showy, with numerous petals that may vary in color. The blossoms can be of a single hue or may have blends and gradients, ranging from whites and pinks to deep reds and purples, depending on the specific variation and growing conditions. The petals tend to be soft and velvety to the touch, arranged in a classic rosette shape that roses are renowned for. The center of the flower is where the reproductive parts are located, which are often surrounded by a whirl of stamens. Rosa 'Rosemary Foster' plants can sometimes have a fragrant aroma that attracts pollinators and pleases gardeners. Throughout the blooming season, the plant will showcase its flowers that may come either singly or in clusters, creating an aesthetically pleasing display. After the blooming period, the flowers may give way to fruit-like structures, commonly known as rose hips, which can add additional interest to the plant. The overall appearance of Rosa 'Rosemary Foster' is one of classic beauty, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Rosemary Foster Rose
Common names
Rosa 'Rosemary Foster' (Ra)
ToxicityTo humans
Roses, including the Rosa 'Rosemary Foster', are not considered toxic to humans. They are generally safe and do not contain any components that are known to cause serious harm if ingested. However, it is important to note that the thorns on rose bushes can cause physical injury if handled improperly.
To pets
Roses are not considered toxic to most pets, including cats and dogs. Ingesting roses should not cause poisoning or serious health issues in pets. However, thorns can cause injuries or gastrointestinal issues if they are ingested, so it is still best to prevent pets from chewing on rose plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
4 feet [1.22 meters]
Spread
4 feet [1.22 meters]
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic appeal: The Rose provides visual beauty and can serve as a focal point in gardens and landscapes.
- Fragrance: It emits a pleasant scent that can enhance the sensory experience of a garden.
- Pollinator attraction: This plant attracts bees and other pollinators, which are beneficial for the ecosystem and help in pollinating other plants.
- Emotional well-being: The presence of Roses has been associated with relaxation and stress reduction, contributing to emotional and mental health.
- Cultural significance: Roses often have symbolic meanings in different cultures, making them a popular choice for ceremonies and festivities.
- Versatility: This Rose variety can be used in various landscape designs including formal and informal gardens, borders, and as a cut flower in floral arrangements.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Plant dye: The petals of the rose can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, with shades varying depending on mordants used.
- Culinary garnish: Rose petals can be used to garnish dishes, adding a touch of elegance and a subtle floral flavor to desserts and salads.
- Infused oils: Rose petals infused in oils can provide a fragrant ingredient for use in homemade soaps, lotions, or massage oils.
- Bath additives: Dried rose petals can be added to bath bombs or salts for an aromatic and luxurious bathing experience.
- Potpourri: Dried rose petals are a classic ingredient in potpourri, lending a lasting fragrance to any room.
- Floral water: Distilling rose petals can create a rose-scented water that can be used as a natural room freshener or linen spray.
- Edible flavoring: Rose petals can be steeped in alcohol to create rose-flavored liqueurs or essence used in baking and cocktails.
- Envelope sealant: Historically, rose petal jam was used as an adhesive to seal envelopes and letters.
- Art supplies: The petals can be pressed and used in craft projects, such as handmade paper or botanical prints.
- Ceremonial usage: In various cultures, rose petals are used to adorn places of worship or are scattered during weddings and other ceremonies.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe rose is often associated with love and romance in Feng Shui and can be used to attract or strengthen these energies. Placing roses in the southwest corner of your garden, home, or a specific room can enhance your relationships and invite love into your life, according to the principles of Feng Shui. It is essential to ensure that the roses are healthy and well-maintained, as wilted or dead flowers can attract negative energy.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe rose is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love: The Rosa, commonly known as the rose, is universally symbolic of love and passion. The intensity of its bloom has long been associated with deep emotions.
- Beauty: Roses are often admired for their exquisite form and beauty, making them a symbol of aesthetic perfection and grace.
- Honor: Giving a rose can be a way to show respect or to honor someone's achievements and qualities.
- Devotion: As a perennial flower that returns each year, roses can symbolize devotion and loyalty in relationships.
- Secrets: In historical context, roses were used to denote secrecy; a rose hung above a meeting table meant that all discussions were to remain confidential.
- Mystery: With its intricate layers and hidden depths, the rose can symbolize mystery and things that are not immediately apparent.
WaterProper watering is essential for the Rosemary Foster rose plant. It's best to water deeply and infrequently to encourage strong root growth. During the growing season, water it once a week with about 1-2 gallons per plant, making sure the soil is moist but not soggy. Adjust the frequency during hot or dry periods to twice a week, ensuring the plant receives enough hydration. Avoid watering the foliage directly to prevent fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant. Reduce watering in the winter when the plant is dormant.
LightThe Rosemary Foster rose thrives in full sun conditions. The ideal spot would receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Avoid locations where buildings or trees would cast too much shade, as roses need plenty of sunlight to bloom well.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature range for the Rosemary Foster rose is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but frost can be damaging, so provide protection if a sudden cold snap is expected. During the peak of summer, if temperatures consistently soar above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, consider providing some afternoon shade to prevent heat stress.
PruningPruning the Rosemary Foster rose helps to maintain its shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage vibrant blooms. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, removing dead canes and thinning the plant to improve air circulation. Deadhead spent flowers throughout the blooming season to promote more blooms. The best time to do major pruning is when the plant is dormant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the rose 'Rosemary Foster' should be well-draining, loamy, and enriched with organic matter such as compost or aged manure. The ideal soil pH for roses is between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend the soil with bone meal or a balanced fertilizer to support healthy growth.
RepottingRoses, including 'Rosemary Foster,' generally do not require frequent repotting as they are typically grown in the ground. If grown in containers, repotting every 2 to 4 years or when roots become pot-bound is sufficient.
Humidity & MistingRoses like 'Rosemary Foster' prefer average humidity levels. They do well in outdoor environments where the humidity naturally fluctuates. Excessively high humidity can result in fungal diseases, so ensure good air circulation around the plants.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow in bright light, water regularly, ensure good air flow.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, water and fertilize.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleRosa 'Rosemary Foster', commonly known as 'Rosemary Foster' rose, begins its life cycle when a seed germinates in fertile, well-drained soil, usually in late winter to early spring. The seedling stage follows, where the emerging plant develops its first true leaves and begins photosynthesis. As the plant matures into the vegetative stage, it forms a bush with thorny stems and compound leaves. The 'Rosemary Foster' rose enters the flowering stage in late spring to early summer, producing fragrant flowers that can range in color based on the cultivar. Following pollination, the plant produces fruits known as rose hips, which mature by late summer, containing seeds for the next generation. In the dormant stage during winter, the rose plant conserves energy and may shed leaves, preparing to repeat the life cycle with the onset of warmer weather.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Rosa 'Rosemary Foster', commonly known as the Rosemary Foster rose, is typically propagated through the method of semi-hardwood cuttings. This technique is best performed during late summer or early fall, when the current season's growth has begun to mature and harden slightly but is not fully woody. To propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings, a gardener would take a cutting of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) long, ensuring it includes several leaf nodes. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is often dipped in a rooting hormone to increase the chances of successful root development. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining soil mix, kept moist, and covered with a plastic bag or dome to retain humidity until roots have developed, which could take several weeks to a few months.
