Bourbon Rose Rosa 'Zéphirine Drouhin' (Bb)
ABOUT
The Zéphirine Drouhin rose is a classic climbing rose that is beloved for its distinctive beauty. This rose variety is characterized by its lush, deep green foliage that provides a striking backdrop for the flowers. The rose blooms are large and showy, featuring a vivid cerise-pink color that stands out in any garden setting. Each flower is densely packed with numerous soft, velvety petals that overlap to form a distinctive cupped shape, creating a romantic and nostalgic feel. The Zéphirine Drouhin rose has a strong and intoxicating fragrance that is as captivating as its visual appeal. The scent can be described as rich and sweet, often with hints of old rose fragrance that is sure to attract both people and pollinators alike. The flowers are known for their long blooming period and typically appear in abundant clusters. These blooms are not only eye-catching but also have the added advantage of being nearly thornless, making them easier to handle and prune compared to many other rose varieties. Despite the absence of thorns, the stems of the plant are strong and capable of supporting the weight of the plentiful flowers. This rose variety is often grown on arches, trellises, or fences where its climbing habit allows it to spread and display its full beauty. In addition to its vertical growth, the plant exhibits a healthy, bushy growth habit, further contributing to its overall attractiveness. The Zéphirine Drouhin rose, with its enchanting flowers and delightful scent, is a timeless favorite in gardens for creating an atmosphere of elegance and charm.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Zephirine Drouhin Rose, Bourbon Rose, Climbing Rose.
Common names
Rosa 'Zéphirine Drouhin'.
ToxicityTo humans
The 'Zéphirine Drouhin' rose, which is a variety of climbing rose, is not considered toxic to humans. It does not contain any known toxins that would pose a risk if ingested. Consequently, there are no specific symptoms associated with poisoning from this plant, as it is generally regarded as safe. However, as with any plant material, consuming large quantities may cause gastrointestinal discomfort simply due to the difficulty in digesting the plant matter.
To pets
The 'Zéphirine Drouhin' rose, also in this context simply referred to as a rose, is not considered toxic to pets. Roses are not known to contain substances that are poisonous to dogs, cats, or other domestic animals. Therefore, ingestion of parts of this plant typically does not lead to symptoms of toxicity or poisoning. However, it is worth noting that thorns can cause physical injury if a pet tries to chew on the stems, and any non-edible substance, if ingested in large amounts, could potentially lead to stomach upset or an intestinal blockage.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
10-12 feet (3-3.6 meters)
Spread
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Thornless Canes: Rosa 'Zéphirine Drouhin' has almost thornless stems, making it easier and safer to handle and prune.
- Fragrant Blooms: This climbing rose is known for its highly fragrant, pink flowers that can enhance the sensory appeal of any garden.
- Repeat Flowering: It typically blooms multiple times throughout the growing season, providing a long-lasting display of flowers.
- Shade Tolerance: Unlike many other roses, it can tolerate partial shade, offering greater flexibility in garden placement.
- Historical Charm: As an old Bourbon rose variety, it adds an element of vintage elegance to the garden setting.
- Disease Resistance: It has a good level of resistance to common rose diseases such as powdery mildew and black spot.
- Climbing Habit: Its climbing nature allows it to cover walls, trellises, arbors, and fences, providing vertical interest in the landscape.
- Attracts Pollinators: The open blooms attract bees and beneficial insects, promoting biodiversity in the garden.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant: The rose plant, including Rosa 'Zéphirine Drouhin', contains various compounds with antioxidant properties, which may help protect the body's cells from damage.
- Anti-inflammatory: Rose extracts have been known to exhibit anti-inflammatory effects that might be beneficial in reducing inflammation.
- Antibacterial: Compounds found in roses have shown antibacterial activity, which might help in fighting certain infections.
- Skin care: Rose oil and rose water, derived from the petals, are often used in skin treatments for their supposed soothing and astringent properties.
- Vitamin C source: Rose hips, the fruit of the rose plant, are a rich source of vitamin C, which is important for immune system function.
- Aromatherapy: The fragrance of roses is used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Rosa 'Zéphirine Drouhin' can be used to create natural barriers or living fences due to its thick growth and thorns that deter intruders.
- The petals of this climbing rose can be used in the crafting of scented sachets or potpourris, offering a long-lasting fragrance for drawers and closets.
- With its large, colorful blooms, Rosa 'Zéphirine Drouhin' serves as an excellent subject for botanical art, photography, and illustration.
- The petals can be infused in oil to make scented rose oil for perfumery or aromatic purposes, capturing the plant's essence in a liquid form.
- These roses can be incorporated into wedding decorations, such as archways or centerpieces, to add natural beauty and a romantic ambiance.
- Rosa 'Zéphirine Drouhin' can be planted alongside vegetables to attract pollinators and increase the yield of the vegetable garden.
- As an edible flower, the rose petals can be used to garnish desserts or salads, introducing a subtle floral note to dishes.
- The rose can be used in floral crafts, like making wreaths or floral hair accessories, particularly for special events or festivals.
- This variety of rose can be used in the process of natural dyeing, yielding shades of pink to purple, depending on the mordant used.
- The strong structure of the rose's canes allows it to be trained over arbors or pergolas, creating shaded garden nooks or picturesque walkways.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe climbing rose is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe climbing rose is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love: Being a member of the rose family, 'Zéphirine Drouhin', commonly known as Bourbon Rose, carries the universal symbol of love and romance. Its lush, opulent blooms often represent deep and passionate love.
- Beauty: With its attractive blossoms and enchanting fragrance, the Bourbon Rose symbolizes beauty and perfection in the natural world, suggesting an appreciation for physical and inner beauty alike.
- Mystery: The rich, velvety flowers of this climbing rose can signify mystery and intrigue, perhaps due to their dense foliage and habit of growing in unexpected directions.
- Spirituality: Roses have a long-standing association with spirituality and the sacred, often used in various cultures to represent purity and the connection between the earthly and the divine.
- Honor: Giving a Bourbon Rose can be a way to show respect and honor towards someone, often used to commemorate significant occasions or achievements.
WaterFor the climbing rose, commonly known as Zéphirine Drouhin, watering should be thorough and deep to encourage deep root growth, aiming to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water this rose once or twice a week, providing about 1 to 2 gallons per bush each time, depending on weather conditions such as heat and wind that may dry out the soil faster. Reduce watering in the fall and water sparingly, if at all, during the winter when the plant is dormant. It's best to water in the morning to allow foliage to dry out during the day and avoid fungal diseases.
LightThe Zéphirine Drouhin climbing rose thrives in a location that receives full sun to light partial shade. Ideally, it should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. The best spot is one where the morning sun quickly dries dew from the leaves, which helps prevent disease.
TemperatureZéphirine Drouhin climbing roses are hardy and can survive in a range of temperatures; they prefer an ideal growing temperature between 65°F and 75°F. These roses can typically tolerate minimum winter temperatures down to about 20°F, though protection may be needed in colder areas, and can handle summer heat up to 90°F or higher.
PruningPruning Zéphirine Drouhin climbing roses is important to keep the plants healthy, improve air circulation, and encourage prolific flowering. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, removing dead or damaged canes and thinning the plant to allow light into the center. Cut back canes that have bloomed by about one-third, and shape the plant as desired to support its climbing habit. The best time to prune is once the risk of severe frost has passed.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the climbing rose 'Zéphirine Drouhin' is well-draining and rich in organic matter. A mix of two parts garden soil, one part compost, one part aged manure, and one part leaf mold or peat moss will provide the necessary nutrients and structure. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 5.5 to 7.0.
RepottingClimbing roses like 'Zéphirine Drouhin' are typically not repotted as they are most often planted directly into the ground. However, if grown in a container, repotting should be done every 2 to 3 years or when the rose outgrows its pot, to provide fresh soil and allow for root growth.
Humidity & Misting'Zéphirine Drouhin' roses prefer a moderate level of humidity and can tolerate the average outdoor humidity conditions. They do not require any special humidity considerations, as long as the soil moisture is well regulated and the plants receive adequate water.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Sunlight and large pots are crucial for 'Zéphirine Drouhin' roses indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, rich soil, and provide support for climbing.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Rosa 'Zéphirine Drouhin', commonly known as the Bourbon Rose, begins with seed germination, which occurs when conditions are moist and warm. After germination, the plant enters a period of vegetative growth, developing a strong root system, foliage, and stems. This is followed by the flowering stage, where the plant produces aromatic, deep pink flowers, usually starting in late spring and often repeating through summer and into autumn. Following pollination, the flowers produce hips (fruit) that contain seeds, which can be dispersed to propagate new plants. The plant then enters a period of dormancy in winter, particularly in cooler climates, where growth slows or ceases, and the plant conserves energy. With the return of warmer temperatures in spring, the cycle resumes as the plant emerges from dormancy, initiating new vegetative growth and subsequent flowering.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The 'Zéphirine Drouhin' rose, a beloved climbing Bourbon rose, is typically propagated by softwood cuttings taken in late spring to early summer when the stems are just beginning to mature but are still flexible. The most popular method involves selecting a healthy stem that has recently bloomed, as flowers siphon energy away from root development in cuttings. Cut a 6- to 8-inch (15 to 20 cm) length from the stem just below a leaf node and remove the leaves from the lower half. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root growth and insert it into a pot filled with a mix of half perlite and half peat moss. Place the pot in indirect light and keep the soil consistently moist. Rooting typically occurs within a few weeks, after which the new plants can be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions before planting in the garden.
