Soulieana Rose Rosa soulieana (Ra/s)
ABOUT
Rosa soulieana, more commonly referred to as the Soulie's rose, is a visually captivating perennial plant known for its beautiful flowers. The blooms of this plant are noted for their classic rose shape, consisting of numerous delicate petals that are often arranged in a spiraling pattern, emanating from the center. These petals typically exhibit a soft, pastel color palette that may vary from pale pinks to creamy whites, adding to their romantic allure. The flowers themselves are usually large and showy, serving as a visual centerpiece of the plant. As with many roses, the blossoms can exude a pleasant fragrance that is attractive to both people and pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. Surrounding the flowers are green, glossy leaves that provide a lush backdrop, making the floral display even more pronounced. These leaves often have a slightly serrated edge and are held on thorny stems, which is characteristic of many rose varieties. The Soulie's rose may also produce fruits known as hips, which can add an additional element of interest to the plant after the flowering season. These hips can vary in color and provide a source of food for wildlife during the fall and winter months. Overall, the aesthetics of Rosa soulieana are typified by its showy flowers, fragrant blooms, verdant foliage, and occasional fruiting bodies that bring a blend of ornamental beauty and natural utility to gardens and landscapes where it is cultivated.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Soulie's Rose
Common names
Rosa soulieana
ToxicityTo humans
Rosa soulieana, commonly known as wild rose, is not generally considered toxic to humans. Members of the Rosa genus, including the wild rose, are often used for their edible petals and fruit (rose hips), which are rich in vitamin C. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities to the plant can occur in some people, and it’s always advisable to exercise caution and avoid eating large quantities of plant material that you are not familiar with. There are no widely recognized symptoms of poisoning from ingesting wild rose, as it isn't commonly associated with toxicity.
To pets
Rosa soulieana, known as wild rose, is typically not toxic to pets. Roses, in general, are not listed as toxic to domestic animals such as dogs and cats. However, the thorns on rose bushes can cause physical injury if a pet were to chew on the stems, potentially leading to punctures in the mouth or digestive tract. It's also possible for pets to have an allergic reaction or experience gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, if they consume parts of the plant, particularly in large quantities. These symptoms are generally more related to the plant’s physical properties or natural plant defenses rather than to chemical toxicity.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
6 feet 5 inches (1.96 meters)
Spread
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Rosa soulieana is known for its aesthetic appeal, adding beauty to gardens with its attractive flowers.
- Habitat for Wildlife: The plant provides habitat and food for a variety of wildlife, including birds and beneficial insects.
- Erosion Control: Being a shrub, it can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes or banks.
- Privacy Screening: Its dense growth habit can be used to create natural privacy screens in residential or public landscapes.
- Fragrance: Rosa soulieana typically emits a pleasant fragrance that can enhance the sensory experience of a garden.
- Cultural Significance: Roses often have symbolic meanings in different cultures, which may make them valuable for cultural and ceremonial purposes.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Rosa soulieana can be used in the production of natural dyes for fabrics, as the petals of many roses contain pigments that can be extracted for this purpose.
- The rosehips of Rosa soulieana can be used to make herbal teas, which, while not medicinal, can offer a soothing, aromatic beverage.
- The thorns of Rosa soulieana can be fashioned into makeshift needles or pins for emergency repairs or for use in crafts.
- Rosa soulieana's strong and flexible stems can be woven into baskets or used as natural ties in gardening.
- Petals of Rosa soulieana can be added to potpourri mixes to provide a natural fragrance to living spaces.
- The leaves of Rosa soulieana can be used as a natural mulch in gardens, decomposing to enrich the soil with organic matter.
- Rosa soulieana can be strategically planted to create natural barriers or hedgerows due to its dense, thorny growth habit.
- Fallen petals of Rosa soulieana can be used in baths to create a luxurious and aromatic bathing experience.
- Rosa soulieana can play a role in companion planting by attracting beneficial insects that help control pests in the garden.
- When dried, the wood of Rosa soulieana can be used in crafting small decorative items or in wood burning art due to its fine grain.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Sweet Briar is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Sweet Briar is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love: As a member of the rose family, Rosa soulieana carries the universal symbolism of roses, which are most commonly associated with love and affection.
- Beauty: Roses are widely regarded as a symbol of beauty due to their elegant and attractive blooms, and this applies to Rosa soulieana as well.
- Honor: Giving a rose is a traditional gesture to show honor and respect, and Rosa soulieana can be used in the same way.
- Secrecy: Historically, roses were hung from ceilings at meetings to demand discretion. Rosa soulieana might echo this symbolism as a reminder of confidentiality.
- Spirituality: Different colors of roses may symbolize various spiritual concepts, so Rosa soulieana might be utilized to convey spiritual messages depending on its bloom color.
WaterThe Sweet Briar rose should be watered deeply once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per plant. During the hot, dry summer months, watering frequency should be increased to twice a week. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the soil is draining properly. For mature plants, reducing the frequency while increasing the amount of water encourages deep root growth and enhances drought resistance.
LightSweet Briar roses thrive in full sunlight with at least six hours of direct light each day. They perform best in a location that receives morning sunlight, which helps to dry dew from the leaves and prevent fungal diseases. Avoid planting them in complete shade, as this will limit their blooming and make them susceptible to pests and diseases.
TemperatureSweet Briar roses are hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures; they thrive in a typical outdoor garden environment between 60°F and 75°F. They can survive winter temperatures as low as 20°F but should be protected from extreme cold. During hot spells, ensure they receive adequate water to keep them stress-free.
PruningPrune Sweet Briar roses in late winter or early spring to remove dead or diseased wood and to shape the plant. Pruning encourages healthy growth, increases air circulation, and can enhance flowering. Remove any spent blooms during the growing season to encourage reblooming. The best time for major pruning is when the plant is dormant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilChinese Rose, better known as Rosa soulieana, prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A suitable mix could include one part loam, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or coarse sand. The best soil pH range for Rosa soulieana is slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingRosa soulieana, commonly known as Chinese Rose, should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Spring is the best time for repotting this plant, allowing it to establish in the growing season.
Humidity & MistingRosa soulieana, or Chinese Rose, is adaptable to a wide range of humidity levels. However, it thrives best in moderate humidity. Excessive humidity can encourage fungal diseases, so it's important to ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright indirect light, well-draining soil mix, and occasional pruning.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, fertile soil, ensure proper spacing, mulch, water regularly.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA.
Life cycleRosa soulieana, commonly known as the wild rose, begins its life cycle as a seed, typically germinating after a period of cold stratification, which mimics winter conditions. After germination, a seedling emerges, establishing roots and a shoot that develops into a thorny stem. As it matures into a young plant, leaves develop, and it undergoes vegetative growth. The wild rose reaches reproductive maturity within a few years, producing fragrant flowers that are pollinated by insects, leading to the formation of rose hips, which are the fruiting bodies containing seeds. These hips eventually dry and release seeds, continuing the cycle, or they may be eaten by wildlife, aiding in seed dispersal. In appropriate conditions, the plant can also spread vegetatively through suckers that emerge from the root system, creating dense thickets.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Rosa soulieana, commonly known as the Sweet Briar Rose, can be propagated through various methods, but the most popular is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This technique is best performed in late summer, as the plant begins to transition from active growth to dormancy. To propagate Sweet Briar Rose cuttings, choose a healthy stem with several leaves but no flowers, and cut a segment approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in length. The cut should be made just below a leaf node, and the lower leaves should be removed. It’s important to dip the cut end into rooting hormone before planting the cutting into a mixture of moistened potting soil and perlite or sand to enhance rooting. The cuttings should be kept in a warm, well-lit area out of direct sunlight until roots develop, which can take several weeks. Regular misting helps to maintain humidity around the cuttings, improving the chances for successful rooting.
