Rosa chinensis (23/06/2013, Kew Gardens, London)
Position: Full sun to light shade
Flowering period: Summer
Soil: Moist, well drained
Eventual Height: 2m
Eventual Spread: 2m
Hardiness: 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b
Family: Rosaceae
Rosa chinensis is a vigorous, deciduous shrub with an erect, arching, scrambling habit. Its mid green shiny leaves are odd pinnate, up to 11cm long with up to 7 leaflets, usually 5. Its leaflets are elliptic with serrate margins, up to 6cm long and 3cm broad. Its purple/ brown stems have hooked thorns. Its fragrant red/ pink/ white flowers contain five petals, are up to 5cm across and appear in groups of up to 5. Its fruit is a red hip which is 2cm across.
Rosa chinensis Flower (23/06/2013, Kew Gardens, London)
Rosa chinensis, commonly known as China Rosa, is native to south west China. In its native habitat it grows on rocky slopes and hills. This species has been an important variety in the breeding of many modern garden roses, including the Hybrid Tea roses
The etymological root of the binomial name Rosa is from the ancient Latin name for the rose. Chinensis is derived from the Latin meaning ‘ from China’.
The landscape architect may find Rosa chinensis useful as an effective informal barrier or hedge.
Ecologically, Rosa chinensis is attractive to pollinating insects. Its hips are attractive to birds during the winter months.
Rosa chinensis Leaf (23/06/2013, Kew Gardens, London)
Rosa chinensis prefers moist, humus rich, well-drained soils. It tolerates most pH of soil. It will not tolerate wet soils.
Rosa chinensis requires little maintenance. Pruning should be carried out once flowering is complete. Obviously if pruning is carried out after flowering no hips will follow.