Wilson's Rose Rosa longicuspis var. sinowilsonii (Ra)
ABOUT
Rosa longicuspis var. sinowilsonii, commonly known as the Wilson's Rose, is a plant known for its ornamental appeal. It boasts a thorny stem that adds to its classic rose characteristics. The leaves of Wilson's Rose are typically lush and green, with a pinnate formation where multiple leaflets emerge from a central stem, giving the foliage a feathery appearance. This plant's most striking feature is its flowers. The Wilson's Rose produces blooms that can vary in color from creamy white to varying shades of pink. These flowers are often large and showy, with a multitude of delicate petals unfurling from a tight central bud to create a classic rose shape. The flowers frequently possess a sweet and inviting fragrance, one of the reasons they are beloved by gardeners and flower enthusiasts. In contrast to the softness of the flowers, the fruit of the Wilson's Rose, also known as hips, can be seen after flowering. These can be colorful and provide additional visual interest. The plant overall is adorned with an interesting combination of a rugged, thorny stem and elegant, fragrant blooms, making it a complex and beautiful addition to any garden.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Wilson's Rose
Common names
Rosa longicuspis var. sinowilsonii (Ra).
ToxicityTo humans
Roses, in general, including the variety Rosa longicuspis var. sinowilsonii, are not considered toxic to humans. Therefore, accidental ingestion of this plant is typically not cause for concern. There may be some discomfort from the prickly thorns if they puncture the skin, but the plant itself does not contain toxins that would cause poisoning in humans.
To pets
Roses, like the variety Rosa longicuspis var. sinowilsonii, are also considered non-toxic to pets. If a pet were to ingest parts of this plant, it is not expected to result in poisoning. However, as with humans, the thorns could potentially cause injury to a pet’s mouth or gastrointestinal tract if ingested, while the plant material itself might occasionally lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, due to physical irritation rather than toxicity.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters)
Spread
4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Landscape Beautification: Rosa longicuspis var. sinowilsonii, commonly known as the wild rose, adds aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes with its vibrant flowers.
- Habitat for Wildlife: The wild rose provides shelter and nesting sites for various species of birds and small mammals.
- Food Source: The rose hips (fruit of the rose plant) serve as a food source for wildlife, including birds, who consume them during scarce winter months.
- Soil Erosion Control: This plant can help stabilize soil and control erosion owing to its root system that holds the soil together.
- Low Maintenance: Wild roses are generally hardy and require less maintenance than many other garden plants, making them a practical choice for gardeners.
- Companion Planting: Wild roses can be planted alongside other species to create beneficial plant communities; they may help deter pests and improve growth conditions.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant activity: Rosa longicuspis var. sinowilsonii may contain compounds that have antioxidant effects, helping to neutralize free radicals in the body.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The plant may exhibit anti-inflammatory effects which could be beneficial in reducing inflammation.
- Antimicrobial effects: Some compounds in the plant may have the potential to act as antimicrobial agents against certain bacteria and fungi.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Floral arrangements: The beautiful and intricate flowers of Rosa longicuspis can be used in decorative floral arrangements for events and home decor.
- Dye production: The petals of Rosa longicuspis may be used to produce natural dyes for fabric, yielding delicate shades of pink or purple.
- Garden design: Due to its aesthetic appeal, this rose variety is a popular choice for garden landscapes, providing a natural and elegant appearance.
- Photography subject: The unique beauty of Rosa longicuspis makes it a favorite subject for photographers specializing in plant and nature photography.
- Perfumery: The scent of Rosa longicuspis can be captured and used in the creation of fragrances and perfumes.
- Botanical studies: Researchers may study Rosa longicuspis for understanding evolutionary adaptations specific to its variety, such as petal structure and growth patterns.
- Culinary decoration: Though not commonly eaten, the petals of this rose could potentially be used to add a decorative touch to dishes in high-end culinary presentations.
- Educational tool: This plant can serve as a teaching aid for botany students learning about different rose species and their characteristics.
- Artistic inspiration: Artists may draw inspiration from the form and color of Rosa longicuspis, incorporating these elements into various forms of art, including painting and sculpture.
- Insect habitat: The plant can provide a natural habitat for beneficial insects, contributing to a healthy and balanced garden ecosystem.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Rosa longicuspis var. sinowilsonii, commonly known as the Wild Rose, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Wild Rose is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love: As a member of the rose family, Rosa longicuspis var. sinowilsonii shares the common symbolism of roses, which is love. It is often associated with deep affection and romantic feelings.
- Beauty: Roses are widely regarded as symbols of beauty due to their intricate and visually appealing flowers, so this variety also inherits this symbolism.
- Mystery: This less common variety of rose may carry a symbolism of mystery, representing secrets or the unknown due to its relative rarity and unique features.
- Passion: The rose's association with passion comes from its vivid colors and sensual connotations; thus, Rosa longicuspis var. sinowilsonii can symbolize a deep, consuming affection or enthusiasm.
WaterThe Wilson's rose should be watered deeply once a week, ensuring that the soil is moistened to a depth of about 18 inches. During the growing season, it may require more frequent watering, especially in hotter and drier conditions. The exact amount can vary, but a good rule of thumb is to provide about 1 to 1.5 gallons per plant per watering session. Decrease the frequency of watering during the fall and much less in the winter, as the plant goes dormant and requires less moisture. Overwatering can cause root rot, so ensure that the soil has good drainage.
LightThe Wilson's rose thrives in full sun exposure, receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for planting this rose variety is in an area that receives morning sun and has some protection from the intense afternoon heat. However, the plant is versatile enough to tolerate some light shade, especially in the hotter regions.
TemperatureThe Wilson's rose prefers moderate temperatures and performs well in a typical garden environment in temperate regions. The plant can tolerate a temperature range from around 35°F to 90°F. However, it enjoys an optimal temperature range between 60°F and 70°F for vigorous growth and blooming. It is important to provide winter protection if temperatures drop below the freezing point.
PruningPruning the Wilson's rose is essential to promote healthy growth, remove dead or diseased wood, and shape the plant. It is best to prune in late winter or early spring, just as new buds begin to swell. Cut back any dead or crossing branches by about one-third to one-half, removing any weak or twiggy growth. Deadhead spent flowers regularly during the blooming season to encourage further blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe wild rose, Rosa longicuspis var. sinowilsonii, prefers well-draining soil with a mix of one-third each of garden soil, compost, and coarse sand; aim for a soil pH between 6.5 and 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingThe wild rose, Rosa longicuspis var. sinowilsonii, should be repotted every two to three years to ensure it has enough room for root growth and to replenish its soil.
Humidity & MistingThe wild rose, Rosa longicuspis var. sinowilsonii, tolerates a range of humidity conditions and does well with average ambient humidity levels found outdoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, regular watering, and good air circulation.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Rosa longicuspis var. sinowilsonii, also known as the Chinese wild rose, begins with seed germination, which requires a period of stratification to break dormancy. After germination, the seedling grows into a young plant, developing a root system and foliage through the vegetative growth stage. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering stage, where it produces fragrant blooms that attract pollinators for sexual reproduction. Following pollination and fertilization, the plant forms rose hips, which are fruit containing seeds for the next generation. Once the rose hips ripen, they may fall to the ground or be consumed by wildlife, dispersing the seeds. The plant goes through a period of senescence in colder climates, where it may lose leaves and enter dormancy before regrowing in the spring, completing its perennial cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Rosa longicuspis var. sinowilsonii, commonly known as the Wilson's Rose, is typically propagated through softwood cuttings. This popular method is commonly carried out in late spring to early summer when new growth is green and flexible. To propagate the Wilson's Rose by cuttings, a gardener would take a 6 to 8-inch (approximately 15 to 20 centimeters) cutting from a healthy, disease-free mother plant, ensuring at least two sets of leaves are present. The lower leaves are removed and the cut end may be dipped in a rooting hormone to facilitate root development. The prepared cutting is then inserted into a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix, ensuring that at least one set of leaves remains above the soil surface. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged, and the pot should be placed in a location with indirect sunlight. Success is indicated by new growth, which usually appears after a few weeks, signaling that the cutting has successfully rooted and is on its way to becoming a new plant.
