Manchurian Rose Rosa sweginzowii
ABOUT
Commonly known as the Chinese climbing rose, this plant boasts an alluring and vibrant presence. The plant showcases an abundance of small, vivid pink flowers that tend to cluster together, creating a stunning visual impact. Each delicate flower is composed of a collection of petals that envelop a prominent center, often attracting pollinators to its sweetly fragrant blooms. The foliage of the Chinese climbing rose contributes a lush backdrop to the flowers with its dense, dark green leaves. These leaves provide a glossy texture and a hearty appearance that complements the softness of the petals. The stems are sturdy and may possess sharp thorns that can add an element of ruggedness to the otherwise charming plant. Throughout the blooming season, the Chinese climbing rose exhibits a flush of color and life, often becoming a focal point in gardens and landscapes. The interplay of its bright flowers and rich green leaves creates a picturesque display of natural beauty.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Manchu Rose, Chinese Wild Rose
Common names
Rosa amblyotis, Rosa omeiensis f. pteracantha, Rosa sweginzowii var. macrocarpa, Rosa sweginzowii var. sweginzowii.
- Toxicity
To humans
Manchu rose, the most common name for Rosa sweginzowii, is not typically known as a poisonous plant to humans. Like most members of the Rosa genus, Manchu rose is not considered toxic and does not usually pose serious risks if ingested. However, the plant can cause mild stomach upset if consumed in large quantities due to the presence of natural compounds found in many plants. The main risk comes from the thorns, which can cause physical injury, but this is not a toxic reaction.
To pets
Manchu rose is the most common name for Rosa sweginzowii and is generally considered non-toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. There are no significant toxic principles in this plant that would normally lead to poisoning in pets. However, pets may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume the plant in large quantities. The thorns of the Manchu rose could potentially cause injuries to pets, such as puncture wounds or scratches, if they try to chew on the branches or stems, but these are physical injuries and not related to poisoning.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Spread
5 feet (1.52 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
China
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Landscape enhancement: Rosa sweginzowii, commonly known as Manchu rose, adds aesthetic value to gardens with its vibrant flowers and attractive foliage.
- Habitat for wildlife: It provides food and shelter to various insect species, including pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- Soil stabilization: This plant can help prevent soil erosion due to its root system, especially on slopes or in areas with loose soil.
- Privacy screening: When grown as hedges, Manchu rose can act as a natural privacy screen while adding beauty to property boundaries.
- Cultural significance: The plant might have historical or cultural importance in certain regions, contributing to the heritage of the landscape.
- Recreational uses: Manchu rose can be incorporated into recreational areas, such as public parks and gardens, for the enjoyment of visitors.
- Educational value: It can be used in educational settings to teach about botany, horticulture, and the importance of plant diversity.
- 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
- Culinary Ingredients: The rose hips of Rosa sweginzowii, also known as Manchu Rose, can be used to make jams, jellies, syrups, and teas, infusing a delicate flavor and vitamin C into culinary creations.
- Dye Source: The petals and rose hips can be used to create natural dyes for fabric, offering hues ranging from soft pinks to deep reds depending on the mordant used.
- Ornamental Use: Manchu Rose is valued in landscaping for its arching stems covered with pink flowers, enhancing the aesthetic of gardens and parks.
- Symbolic Gift: The rose itself is a symbol of love and passion, making Manchu Rose a meaningful gift in the form of cut flowers or as a live plant.
- Floral Arrangements: The flowers of Manchu Rose are used in floral arrangements, including bridal bouquets and centerpieces, for their beauty and fragrance.
- Protective Hedge: With its thorny branches, Manchu Rose can be grown as a protective hedge to deter trespassers and encroachment of wildlife into cultivated areas.
- Perfumery: The fragrant blooms may be used in the production of rose oil and perfumes, though it is not as common as other rose species more renowned for their scent.
- Art and Photography: Manchu Rose, due to its striking appearance, serves as a subject for artists and photographers aiming to capture the essence of flora in their work.
- Companion Planting: Roses are sometimes planted amongst other crops to attract beneficial insects and may also serve to help deter certain pests.
- Cultural Significance: In some cultures, roses are part of traditional ceremonies and events; Manchu Rose may be incorporated into such practices reflecting its regional significance.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Rosa sweginzowii, commonly known as the Macartney Rose, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Macartney Rose is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Love: As a member of the rose family, Rosa sweginzowii, commonly known as the Manchu Rose, symbolizes love and affection.
- Beauty: The Manchu Rose, with its stunning blooms, represents the beauty of nature and is often associated with grace and elegance.
- Passion: Roses are traditionally linked to deep passion and desire, and the Manchu Rose is no exception, expressing intense feelings.
- Honor: Gifting a Manchu Rose can be a way to show reverence and respect towards someone, symbolizing honor.
- Devotion: The enduring nature of roses makes them emblematic of devotion and commitment.
- Water
When watering Manchu Rose, ensure the soil is kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the bushes deeply once a week with about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per plant, depending on the weather conditions. In the hot summer months, you might need to water twice a week, while in cooler, rainy periods you may need to reduce watering. Always check the top couple of inches of soil for dryness before watering. Cut back on water during the winter, when the plant is dormant, to prevent root rot.
- Light
Manchu Rose thrives in full sun to partial shade. The best spot for planting is an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight a day. Although it can tolerate some light shade, too much shade can lead to fewer blooms and a weaker plant. An ideal location would be one that gets morning sunlight and some afternoon shade to protect it from the intense late-day sun.
- Temperature
Manchu Rose prefers temperatures ranging between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. This plant can survive minimum temperatures down to around 20°F but is not suited for extremely hot climates with temperatures consistently above 85°F. The ideal temperature range ensures healthy growth and abundant flowering.
- Pruning
Prune the Manchu Rose in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This promotes healthy growth, removes dead or diseased wood, and shapes the plant. Thinning out the center of the bush increases air circulation, which helps to prevent disease. Pruning should be done annually; for rejuvenation, prune up to one-third of old canes right down to the ground.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
The best soil mix for the Manchu Rose should be well-draining, rich in organic matter, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix of loam, peat, compost, and coarse sand would be ideal to ensure good drainage and fertility.
- Repotting
Manchu Rose doesn't typically require frequent repotting as it is usually grown outdoors; however, if grown in containers, repotting every 2-3 years is sufficient to replenish soil nutrients and allow for root growth.
- Humidity & Misting
Manchu Rose is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels but thrives best with moderate humidity that mirrors its native habitat. Average garden humidity should be sufficient for healthy growth without special adjustments.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Ensure bright light, prune regularly, and maintain soil moisture.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil, protect from harsh winds.
Hardiness zone
Manchu Rose is suited for USDA zones 6-9.
- Life cycle
The Manchu Rose (Rosa sweginzowii) life cycle begins with seed germination, which typically occurs in spring when temperatures warm up after a period of stratification which simulates the cooling and warming of the winter to spring transition. Once germinated, the seedling stage involves the development of the root system and the first shoots and leaves, providing the plant with the ability to photosynthesize and grow. As it matures into the vegetative stage, the Manchu Rose develops a woody stem, more leaves, and new canes from the base, preparing it for the flowering stage. The flowering stage usually occurs in late spring to early summer, featuring a prolific display of red or pink blossoms that are pollinated by insects such as bees. After pollination, the plant enters the fruiting stage wherein it produces rose hips (seed pods) that mature usually by late summer or fall, containing seeds for the next generation. In winter, the Manchu Rose may become dormant, shedding leaves in colder climates, but it will resume its growth cycle with the return of warmer weather.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-summer
Rosa sweginzowii, commonly known as Manchurian rose, is best propagated by softwood cuttings. Cuttings are taken from new growth that is just beginning to harden in late spring to early summer. The optimal length for these cuttings is about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters). These cuttings should have several leaves present, and the lower leaves are usually removed before the cutting is placed in a rooting medium. A rooting hormone is often applied to the base of the cuttings to encourage root growth, and maintaining a high humidity environment is crucial for successful rooting. Cuttings are typically placed in a light, well-draining mix and kept under controlled conditions until roots have developed, after which they can be hardened off and eventually planted out.