Wilhelm Rose Rosa 'Wilhelm' (HM)
ABOUT
The Rosa 'Wilhelm' (HM) is a rose characterized by its distinctively shaped flowers and foliage. Its blossoms are vibrant and often come in shades that might range from deep red to pink or perhaps with bi-color variations, depending on the specific variety. Each flower is typically composed of multiple layers of petals that unfurl in a classic or cupped shape, creating a lush, full appearance. The petals may exhibit a velvety texture, and the roses are known for their pleasant fragrance, which can be quite strong and sweet, often filling the air around them. Roses from this variety usually bloom in clusters, adding to their ornamental appeal when in full display. The foliage of Rosa 'Wilhelm' is typically lush and green. The leaves are usually glossy, with an oval or oblong shape and a pointed tip, often with a leathery texture. They are attached to the plant by sturdy stems that may have thorns or prickles, which can vary in size and frequency along the stems. As a rose plant, the Rosa 'Wilhelm' would be expected to show a recurrent blooming pattern, producing flowers at intervals throughout the growing season under favorable conditions. These characteristic features contribute to its popularity in gardens and landscapes where it's grown for its aesthetic qualities and the touch of elegance it adds to its surroundings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Wilhelm Rose
Common names
Rosa 'Wilhelm' (HM)
ToxicityTo humans
The plant in question is commonly known as a rose. Roses are not considered toxic to humans. However, people should be cautious about the plant's thorns, which can cause physical injury, but the plant itself is not poisonous. Ingesting parts of the rose plant, such as petals, is generally safe, and roses are even used in culinary applications. Yet, eating large quantities is not advisable due to the risk of digestive discomfort.
To pets
The plant commonly known as a rose is not considered toxic to pets. The non-toxic nature means that pets are not likely to experience poisoning from ingesting rose petals or leaves. However, similar to humans, pets may experience physical injuries from the thorns if they try to chew on the stems. Eating large amounts of the plant can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the fibrous plant material, but roses are not inherently poisonous to pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters)
Spread
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Rosa 'Wilhelm' adds color and beauty to gardens with its attractive blooms.
- Landscape Versatility: It can be used in various garden designs, including borders, hedges, and as a standalone specimen.
- Pollinator Attraction: The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators to the garden.
- Fragrance: This rose variety is known for its pleasant scent, which can enhance the sensory experience of a garden.
- Emotional Wellbeing: The presence of roses is often associated with happiness and relaxation.
- Cultural Significance: Roses have a long history of symbolism and are often used in ceremonies and celebrations.
- Durability: Rosa 'Wilhelm' is known for being a hardy plant that can withstand various environmental conditions.
- Seasonal Interest: This rose variety provides seasonal flowers, usually blooming from late spring to early autumn.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Culinary Garnish: Petals of the rose can add color and a mild floral flavor to salads and desserts.
- Artistic Dye: The petals can be boiled to produce a natural dye for fabrics or paper.
- Natural Potpourri: Dried rose petals can be included in potpourri mixtures to add fragrance to a room.
- Bath Soak: Rose petals can be added to bathwater for a luxurious, fragrant soaking experience.
- Floral Water: Soaked or distilled rose petals can be used to create a lightly scented rose water for cosmetic or culinary uses.
- Crafting: Roses can be used in pressed flower art or to decorate handmade cards or paper.
- Eco-Friendly Confetti: Dried rose petals can serve as biodegradable confetti for celebrations and weddings.
- Candle Making: Rose petals can be embedded in homemade candles for decoration and aroma.
- Rose Petal Ice Cubes: Freezing small rose petals in ice cubes adds an elegant touch to drinks.
- Homemade Syrup: Rose petals can be simmered in sugar water to create a rose-flavored syrup for drinks or desserts.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe rose is commonly associated with love and romance in Feng Shui, thus Rosa 'Wilhelm', as a variety of rose, can be used to enhance the love and marriage area of a space, known as Kun in the Bagua map, by attracting chi energy that fosters relationships. They should be placed in a pair to symbolize partnership and in the southwest area of the home or garden for the best effect. Care should be taken to remove any dead or faded blooms to maintain positive energy flow.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe rose is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love: Roses universally symbolize love and passion. 'Wilhelm' roses, like all roses, would commonly be associated with strong emotions and the expression of deep affection.
- Beauty: Due to their captivating appearance, roses symbolize beauty. The 'Wilhelm' rose, with its specific form and color, would be no exception to this association.
- Honor: Roses, especially when named after a person, may symbolize honor and respect. As 'Wilhelm' is likely named after an individual, this rose could carry connotations of honoring a person or legacy.
- Devotion: Roses are often used to signify devotion in romantic and platonic relationships. The 'Wilhelm' rose may represent a commitment or deep loyalty between individuals.
- Mystery or Secrecy: Given its possibly unique attributes, a rose like 'Wilhelm' may symbolize mystery or keeping secrets, harking back to the practice of sub rosa (under the rose) where a rose hung overhead meant confidentiality.
WaterThe Rosa 'Wilhelm', commonly known as the Hybrid Tea Rose, should be watered deeply once a week during its growing season, ensuring that approximately 1-2 gallons of water reaches the roots. Watering should be done in the morning to allow for moisture to dry before nighttime, reducing the risk of disease. During hot, dry periods, additional watering may be needed to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. It's essential to avoid overhead watering to keep the leaves dry and prevent fungal infections. In the winter, watering should be reduced as the plant goes dormant.
LightHybrid Tea Roses like Rosa 'Wilhelm' thrive best in full sun conditions, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. They perform optimally when planted in a spot that receives morning sun, which helps dry the dew on the leaves and prevent disease. An eastern or southern exposure is best to provide sufficient light for healthy growth and flower production.
TemperatureHybrid Tea Roses such as the Rosa 'Wilhelm' prefer moderate temperatures and can generally tolerate temperatures between 30°F and 90°F. The ideal growing temperature range is 65°F to 75°F during the day. They can survive short periods of colder temperatures but need protection when temperatures approach the lower limit.
PruningPruning is vital for the health of the Rosa 'Wilhelm' or Hybrid Tea Rose, to promote air circulation, shape the plant, and remove dead or diseased wood. Prune in late winter or early spring when new growth begins, after the risk of severe cold has passed. Cut back about a third of the plant, removing any branches that are crossing or inward-growing. The best time for heavy pruning is when the plant is dormant, but light pruning and deadheading can be done throughout the growing season to encourage continued blooming.
CleaningAs needed
SoilRoses prefer well-draining soil with rich organic matter. For Rosa 'Wilhelm', a soil mix of one-third garden soil, one-third compost or well-rotted manure, and one-third sharp sand or perlite is ideal. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingRosa 'Wilhelm', like other rose varieties, does not typically require frequent repotting and can often be left for several years unless it outgrows its container. Repotting every 2-4 years should suffice, and it's best done during late winter or early spring.
Humidity & MistingRoses generally prefer moderate humidity levels and do not require excessively high humidity. For Rosa 'Wilhelm', aim for a humidity level around 40-60%. Avoiding overly damp conditions is important to prevent fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, regular water, and good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, amend soil, water deeply, and mulch.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Rosa 'Wilhelm' (Hybrid Musk Rose) starts its life cycle from a seed or more commonly from a propagated cutting or grafted plant. After planting, the rose enters a vegetative stage where it focuses on leaf and stem growth, developing a strong root system. It then transitions to the budding phase, where flower buds form and gradually swell. Following the budding stage, the rose blooms, showcasing its flowers which can occur repeatedly throughout the growing season, given proper care and climatic conditions. After pollination, the flowers produce hips (fruit) containing seeds, which can be dispersed to give rise to new plants. Finally, the rose enters a period of dormancy during winter, conserving energy for the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring-Summer
The most popular method for propagating the Rosa 'Wilhelm', commonly known as a type of rose, involves the use of stem cuttings. This technique typically takes place in late spring or early summer when the plant is in active growth. A healthy, non-flowering shoot is selected and a cutting of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) is made. It is important to cut just below a leaf node, because this is where the growth hormones are concentrated. The lower leaves are removed and the cut end is often dipped in rooting hormone powder to enhance root development. The cutting is then planted in a well-drained soil mix, ensuring at least a couple of leaf nodes are buried where roots and new shoots can develop. The pot is kept in a warm, humid environment with indirect sunlight until the cutting has rooted, which can take several weeks.
