China rose (Rosa chinensis) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

China rose is a very drought-tolerant type of rose, but it still benefits from frequent watering during its flowering time. Water the lower section of the plant and the surrounding soil, without wetting the leaves, if possible. For roses planted in the ground, water until the area seems waterlogged and a small puddle forms around the stems. Water again when the top layer of soil feels dry.

Fertilization

Fertilize your china rose with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing period. Dilute the fertilizer into the water that you use for normal watering. You can also apply manure or garden compost in spring, during planting. Roses planted in containers or pots should be fertilized more often than those planted in the ground.

Pruning

Trim the dead, diseased, overgrown branches in winter.

Soil

Sand, Loam, Clay, Slightly acidic, Neutral, Slightly alkaline

Potting Suggestions

Increase pot diameter year by year, and replace pots before or after the winter each year. Masonry pots are preferred for potting.

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China rose

Water

Every 1-2 weeks

Sunlight

Full sun

Hardiness Zones

5 to 11

Planting Time

Spring, Fall

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Questions About China rose

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What's the best method to water my China rose?

You might want to put a garden hose at the plant base to ensure that you're promoting excellent root development. Avoid directly spraying the leaves, and know that the leaves will require more watering if they are outdoors and facing direct sunlight. You can also use bubblers that you can put on to each plant to moisten the roots. Also, use soaker hoses that can cover the entire garden or bed when adding or removing plants to push the roots deeply. Drain any excess water and wait for the soil to dry before watering. Water at ground level to prevent diseases. On a sunny day, you might want to spray the entire bush with water. Whether potted or in-ground, please remember China rose prefers deep watering over light sprinkling.

What should I do if I water China rose too much/too little?

An overwatered China rose can start to have leaves that turn yellow, drop off and wilt. The plant can also look dull and unhealthy, with signs of mushy stems. When they are beginning to show these signs, it's best to adjust your schedule whenever possible.

The wilting can also be a sign of under watering as well. You might see that the leaves begin to turn crispy and dry while the overwatered ones will have soft wilted leaves. Check the soil when it is dry and watering is not enough, give it a full watering in time. Enough water will make the China rose recover again, but the plant will still appear dry and yellow leaves after a few days due to the damaged root system. Once it return to normal, the leave yellowing will stop .

Always check the moisture levels at the pot when you have the China rose indoors. Avoid overwatering indoors and see if there are signs of black spots. If these are present, let the soil dry in the pot by giving it a few days of rest from watering.

Overwatering can lead to root rot being present in your plant. If this is the case, you might want to transfer them into a different pot, especially if you see discolored and slimy roots. Always prevent root rot as much as possible, and don't let the soil become too soggy.

You should dig a little deeper when you plant your China rose outdoors. When you check with your fingers and notice that the soil is too dry, it could mean underwatering. Adequate watering is required to help the plant recover.

How often should I water my China rose?

The China rose likes deep and infrequent watering. You would want to soak them in a gallon of water each time, especially when they are planted in pots. The water storage of flower pots is limited and the soil will dry out faster. Watering is required every 3 to 5 days when living in a cold region. Water it early in the morning when the soil is dry, outdoors or indoors. You can also determine if watering is needed by checking the soil inside. When the top 2-3 inches of soil is dry, it is time to give the plant a full watering. During hot days, you may need to check the moisture daily, as the heat can quickly dry out the soil in the pot.

Irrigation of the soil is also required if you have a garden. When you live in a hot climate, you might want to water once a week. Only water when you notice that about 2 to 3 inches of soil become too dry outdoors or indoors. Consider the amount of rainwater on the plant and ensure not to add to it to prevent root rot.You may not need additional watering of the plants if there is a lot of rainfall.China rose generally grows during spring and fall. When they are outdoors, you need to add mulch about 3 to 4 inches deep to conserve more water.

You need to water the plants more frequently in sandy soil because this type tends to drain faster. However, with the clay one, you need to water this less frequently where you could go for 2-3 days to dry the plant and not develop any root rot. You could mark the date on the calendar whenever you water and when you notice that the leaves are starting to droop. This can mean that you might be a day late.

How much water do I need to give my China rose?

The China rose generally needs about a gallon of water each schedule,With the potted plants, you might want to water them deeply until you see that the water is dripping at the bottom of the pot. Then, wait for the soil to dry before watering them again. You can use a water calculator or a moisture meter to determine the amount you've given to your plant in a week. Provide plenty of water, especially in the flowering period, but let the moisture evaporate afterwards to prevent root rot.

If China rose is planted outdoor with adequate rainfall, it may not need additional watering. When China rose is young or newly planted, make sure it gets 1-2 inches of rain per week. As China rose continues to grow, it can survive entirely on rainfall. Only when the weather is too hot, or when there is no rainfall at all for 2-3 weeks, then consider giving China rose a full watering during the cooler moment of the day to prevent the plant from suffering from high heat damage. Additional watering will be required during persistent dry spells.

Should I adjust the watering frequency for my China rose according to different seasons or climates?

The China rose needs outdoors come from rain, with only persistent dry weather requiring watering. Throughout the spring and fall growing seasons, the soil needs to be kept moist but not soggy, and alternating dry and moist soil conditions will allow the China rose to grow well. Throughout the summer, hot weather can cause water to evaporate too quickly, and if there is a lack of rainfall, you will need to water more frequently and extra to keep it moist.

Usually, the China rose will need less water during the winter. Since the China rose will drop their leaves and go dormant, you can put them into a well-draining but moisture-retentive soil mixture like the terracotta to help the water evaporate quicker. Once your China rose growing outdoors begins to leaf out and go dormant, you can skip watering altogether and in most cases China rose can rely on the fall and winter rains to survive the entire dormant period.

After the spring, you can cultivate your China rose and encourage it to grow and bloom when the temperature becomes warmer.This plant is not generally a fan of ponding or drought when flowering. You must ensure that the drainage is good at all times, especially during the winter.

When the plant is in a pot, the plant has limited root growth. Keep them well-watered, especially if they are planted in pots during summer. They don't like cold and wet roots, so provide adequate drainage, especially if they are still growing.

It's always best to water your China rose’s diligently. Get the entire root system into a deep soak at least once or twice a week, depending on the weather. It's best to avoid shallow sprinkles that reach the leaves since they generally encourage the growth of fungi and don't reach deep into the roots. Don't allow the China rose’s to dry out completely in the fall or winter, even if they are already dormancy.

Don't drown the plants because they generally don't like sitting in water for too long. They can die during winter if the soil does not drain well. Also, apply mulch whenever possible to reduce stress, conserve water, and encourage healthy blooms.

What should I be careful with when I water my China rose in different seasons, climates, or during different growing periods?

If planting in the ground, China rose mostly relies on rain. However, if there is no rainfall for 2-3 weeks, you may need to give proper consideration to giving the plants a deep watering. If watering China rose in summer, you should try to do it in the morning. A large temperature difference between the water temperature and the root system can stress the roots. You need to avoid watering the bushes when it's too hot outside. Start mulching them during the spring when the ground is not too cold.

The age of the plants matter. Lack of water is one of the most common reasons the newly planted ones fail to grow. After they are established, you need to ease off the watering schedule.

Reduce watering them during the fall and winter, especially if they have a water-retaining material in the soil. The dry winds in winter can dry them out, and the newly planted ones can be at risk of drought during windy winter, summer, and fall. Windy seasons mean that there's more watering required. The ones planted in the pot tend to dry out faster, so they need more watering. Once you see that they bloom less, the leaves begin to dry up.

Potted plants are relatively complex to water and fluctuate in frequency. Always be careful that the pot-planted plant don't sit in the water. Avoid putting them in containers with saucers, bowls, and trays. Too much watering in the fall can make the foliage look mottled or yellowish. It's always a good idea to prevent overwatering them regardless of the current climate or season that you might have. During the months when China rose begins to flower, you might want to increase the watering frequency but give it a rest once they are fully grown.

Give them an adequate amount of water once every 3 to 5 days but don't give them regular schedules. Make sure the soil is dry by sticking your finger in the pot, or use a moisture meter if you're unsure if it's the right time. Too much root rot can cause them to die, so be careful not to overwater or underwater regardless of the climate or season you have in your area.

Why is watering my China rose important?

Watering the China rose helps transport the needed nutrients from the soil to the rest of the plant. The moisture will keep this species healthy if you know how much water to give. The watering requirements will depend on the weather in your area and the plant's soil.

The China rose thrives on moist soil, but they can't generally tolerate waterlogging. Ensure to provide enough mulch when planted on the ground and never fall into the trap of watering too little. They enjoy a full can of watering where the water should be moist at the base when they are planted in a pot to get the best blooms.

If they are grown as foliage, you need to water them up to a depth of 10 to 20 inches so they will continue to grow. If it's raining, refrain from watering and let them get the nutrients they need from the rainwater.

Is pruning necessary for my China rose?

You should know that the China rose is a species that requires regular pruning before you decide to grow one in your yard. Pruning, in this case, is not only a way to keep this plant in good health, but it is also a way of controlling the spread of this plant. The China rose is known to grow quickly and spread fast, often via suckering. This spread is so aggressive that many regions list this plant as an invasive species. Check your regional list of invasive plants and be sure to avoid planting the China rose if you find it on that list. If you live where it is permissible to plant this species, be prepared with a set of pruning tools to keep it in check.

When is the best time to prune my China rose?

The best time to perform pruning for your China rose is during the late winter or early spring. At that time, the plant is just exiting its dormant phase, which means that pruning away dead, damaged, or diseased parts of the plant will help it direct the coming season’s growing energy toward healthier branches. You may also prune your China rose later in the season as well during the bloom time. This type of pruning should include removing spent blooms to encourage additional blooms. Also, since this plant is such a vigorous grower, you have permission to prune any time it begins to become overgrown during the growing season.

How can I prune my China rose?

There are several ways that you can prune your China rose, each of which will have a different effect on the plant. You should understand that the China rose typically grows as a set of arching canes rather than producing branches from a main stem or set of stems. This growth habit includes spreading via suckering. When pruning to control this plant’s spread, you should focus on removing entire suckering canes all the way to the ground. You can also manage the shape of this plant by cutting individual canes by up to half of their length. Doing so is one way that gardeners create a neat, rounded shape for China rose. It's also best to perform some light pruning during this plant's flowering period. During and just after the bloom time, you should prune to remove spend flowers and make small pruning cuts to remove any dead wood that you find on your plant. Regardless of which of those methods you use, you should be sure to use a reliable set of pruners that are both sharp and sterile.

How can I prune my China rose through different growth stages?

When your China rose is young, you will have the greatest opportunity to choose whether you want to grow this plant as a shrub or as a climbing plant. If you choose the latter, you should use your pruning to establish a few main canes and then secure them to your garden structure. Otherwise, your China rose will naturally take on a spreading shrub form. Whether you grow your China rose as a shrub or as a climbing plant, you’ll need to maintain a regular pruning routine throughout all of its growth stages. As your plant matures, you will need to continually use pruning each year, sometimes multiple times per year, to control its overall size and ability to spread.

How can I prune my China rose during different seasons?

The main season for pruning your China rose is late winter to early spring. During this part of the year, you should perform the majority of your pruning to control size and shaping. When spring arrives, your plant will begin developing flower buds, which typically open from late spring to early summer. When the bloom period arrives, you can perform deadheading for spent flowers, which promotes additional flowering. Throughout the entire growing season, you can remove suckers and cut back this plant as you see fit to prevent it from overcrowding other plants in your yard.

Are there any other tips and tricks for pruning my China rose?

When pruning the China rose, you should always wear gloves and consider wearing long sleeves and long pants as well. This plant is known to hold sharp thorns and to grow in a dense thicket when allowed to. As such, you should use caution any time you handle your China rose to avoid injury. Because this plant is so vigorous, you may come to find that you cannot control your China rose, and you would like to get rid of it. If that is the case, you’ll need to cut back all above-ground portions of the plant, remove as much of the root system as possible, and continue mowing the area where this plant grew about six times per year for multiple seasons.

How much/long should China rose get sunlight per day for healthy growth?

For healthy growth, make sure that China rose receives at least 3–6 hours of sun each day. This is actually a minimum requirement—most plants that can handle part sun can also thrive in full sun, but because they require less light for photosynthesis, they are more flexible than plants that require full sun or part shade.

What type of sunlight does China rose need?

China rose does best with exposure to full or part sun. They will perform best with direct morning light, but in summer they need protection from the strong afternoon sun. In temperate environments, too much hot afternoon sun can burn the leaves, damaging the plant's appearance and health.

Can sunlight damage China rose? How to protect China rose from the sun and heat damage?

China rose planted indoors can easily be damaged by direct sunlight when it's moved outdoors. The best way to prevent sunburns from overexposure is to move pots gradually from a shaded area to a brighter spot, gradually. But even plants that are acclimated to the summer sun can be damaged by extreme heat. In a heatwave, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist so that plants can cope with excessive levels of heat. Moving plants in containers to areas with afternoon shade or erecting a shade cloth over them can protect sensitive China rose during extreme weather events.

Does China rose need to avoid sun exposure? / Should I protect China rose from the sun?

While bright morning sun and some full sun exposure can be highly beneficial for China rose, the harsh, hot midday sun of summer can be too much to handle.

If planted in the ground, the summer sun will usually ramp up slowly enough through the season for China rose to gradually adapt to its intensity. But a potted plant that has been indoors or in a protected location will often suffer injury when placed suddenly into a location where the direct summer sun reaches it in the hottest part of the day.

To protect this plant from the brutal afternoon summer sun, plant or place it in an understory location where it is shaded at midday by taller trees and plants or by a building or landscape feature.

What will happen if China rose gets inadequate sunlight?

When China rose receives too little sun, they may become pale green or display drooping, yellow leaves. While some leaf drop is normal, if leaves are dropping but no new ones are growing in to replace them, it is a sign that something is wrong. If China rose receiving inadequate light does manage to grow, the new growth is often spindly, pale, and prone to insect infestation. Paying attention to these signs and changing the lighting conditions of the plant will make a significant difference.

Does China rose need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Tender, new leaves are especially sensitive to sunburn. Bearing this in mind, very young China rose and when it's in a strong growth phase, such as in late spring and early summer, will be more sensitive to harsh sun and heat than the mature one or those in a more dormant fall growth stage. China rose fresh from a nursery is also usually not prepared for strong full sunlight and must be introduced to it slowly.

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and China rose?

Recently transplanted China rose will often experience a bit of shock and will need to be cared for carefully, either shaded from bright afternoon sun or placed in a protected area. On very hot days, you may see the leaves of China rose drooping—this is usually nothing to worry about. Plants will send the water in their leaves down into their roots to protect them from burning. However, if the leaves are still drooping in the evening or the next morning, the plant needs water. Always avoid watering during the hottest times of day, as sunlight can hit wet leaves and scorch them easily.

China rose that has been underwatered will be weaker than that with consistently moist soil. This can leave it with weak roots that are unable to protect the leaves on hot, sunny summer days by diverting water away from the leaves. Care for an underwatered plant by giving it a long, deep watering and then allowing the top two inches of soil to dry out before the next watering. Even if it loses its leaves, if cared for properly it will grow new ones.

What is the optimal temperature for China rose?

The best temperature for China rose to thrive is 65~80℉(18~27℃). During the primary growing phase, the highest temperature tolerable would be 95℉(35℃), while the lowest tolerable temperature would be 15℉(-10℃). This species is tolerant of low temperatures and will survive freezing winters. The perfect, highest, and lowest temperature range:

Perfect：65~80℉(18~27℃)

Highest：85~95℉(30~35℃)

Lowest：-5~15℉(-20~-10℃) or below

Should I adjust the temperature for China rose during different growing phases?

Research shows that China rose will begin to exhibit signs of stunted growth during prolonged periods of higher temperatures, especially during the development of axillary buds and the growth of main shoots. Keeping the temperatures consistent and cooler, around 65℉(18℃), will encourage vigorous growth after germination or transplanting.

How can I keep China rose warm in cold seasons?

China rose can withstand freezing temperatures when planted in the ground in areas that don’t get below of 15℉(-10℃) as an extreme temperature during the winter months. But if planted in pots or containers, then their roots must be protected from the winter cold. Do this by wrapping the container in a blanket or bringing it inside where it will be fully protected from the elements.

What damage will China rose suffer if the temperature is too high/low?

Greater harm will come to China rose if the temperature is consistently too high versus too low.

If China rose gets too hot, seed germination and photosynthesis efficiency is lessened due to hormone triggers caused by heat stress. The plant will show signs through wilting, leaf browning, and potentially death.

If China rose gets too cold, plant functions such as nutrient uptake and photosynthesis will cease, resulting in the possible death of the plant. If a single freezing event occurs during the growing season, then a membrane phase transition might occur, which can cause a cease in plant functions and death of the plant.

What tips and cautions should I keep in mind when it comes to temperature for China rose?

Keeping the soil temperature consistent is one of the most important strategies to keeping China rose healthy, which leads to successful budding, flowering, and new growth. Do this by consistently watering, adding mulch to bare soil, and planting in the shade.

How can I keep China rose warm without a heat pad?

Due to the cold tolerance of China rose, heating pads will not be necessary if planted outside in the ground. If the plant is in an outdoor pot, then bring it inside a heated house and place it in a sunny window during the winter months.

How can I provide China rose with an adequate temperature condition?

To ensure adequate temperature conditions are present, plant China rose in an area with partial shade. If possible, use afternoon shade to provide the best protection during the hottest part of the day. This will also result in lower temperatures in the soil due to increased moisture retention. If China rose is planted indoors, then keep the container away from windows and out of direct sunlight during the summer months to prevent the soil temperature from spiking daily.

How can I save China rose from temperature damage?

During the summer or times of high heat, give China rose extra shade and water to help cool its leaves, roots, and soil. During cold snaps or growing season freezes, cover sensitive budding vegetation with frost cloth or water using sprinkler systems. If it’s only nearing freezing temperatures for a short period, then water during the day several hours before the freeze. If the temperature is predicted to remain below freezing for an extended period, then keep the sprinkler running until the temperature rises above freezing the following day.

Should I adjust the temperature for China rose in different seasons?

China rose is a mid-temperature plant that can easily tolerate the typical fluctuations of the seasons and remain a hardy species when planted in maintained landscapes areas, containers, or indoors. Therefore, adjusting the temperature during the different seasons is unnecessary for primary growth. If flowering is stunted or impeded, then allowing the plant to experience a season of winter freeze could help to revive flowering.

Under what conditions should I stop adjusting the temperature for China rose?

If it becomes too difficult to lower the temperature for an indoor plant during the summer, then plant it outside in the ground or in a container. Make sure to plant China rose in a shaded location and water often to keep the soil moist.

Why do I need to fertilize my China rose?

You need to fertilize a China rose for a few important reasons. The most obvious of these reasons is that fertilizer will help your China rose produce lovely blooms. Fertilizing in early spring is one of the best ways to ensure that your China rose has excellent flowers during that season.

Fertilizer also gives your China rose plenty of energy that it can store in the ground during its dormant growth phases. Giving your China rose some extra nutrients during the fall planting process or during the late spring will help your China rose hold more energy to use once active growth resumes.

When is the best time to fertilize my China rose?

Timing is crucial when it comes to fertilizing China rose. If you use fertilizer too early while the China rose is still dormant at this time. This fertilizer cannot be used effectively and will be washed away by rainwater, causing waste and pollution. The first application of fertilizer should be applied in the early spring. Continue fertilizing once a month until early summer.

When should I avoid fertilizing my China rose?

Avoid giving China rose a fertilizer with too much nitrogen, since this can lead to development of plenty of leaves but not many blooms. Look for fertilizer with a lower level of nitrogen compared to other nutrients.

Do not fertilize after the early autumn, which can cause too much growth just before winter. Also, China rose should not be fertilized during hot and dry times of year, since dry soil does not deliver fertilizer as effectively as moist soil. Fertilizing at this time can also stimulate growth which in turn needs more water that may not be available. It is best to keep fertilizer for earlier in the season when temperatures are cooler.

Finally, remember that China rose can absorb fertilizer that has been applied to nearby plants or lawns, so be cautious about inadvertently giving tree/shurb a double-dose of fertilizer.

What type of fertilizer does my China rose need?

The ideal fertilizer for a China rose is one that has a relatively balanced mix of the three main plant nutrients, with slightly higher amounts of phosphorus. Alternatively, some gardeners choose to improve their China rose 's soil by adding organic materials such as compost, worm castings, and manure. Some experienced gardeners will supplement 1-2 times with water-soluble fertilizers containing phosphorus when the flower buds start to appear. This will help the flowers develop better and allow them to grow larger and bloom longer.

Fertilizers can come in many forms, and most of these forms will work well for your China rose. However, some of the best fertilizers for China rose come in either a liquid or a powdered form. Regardless of which you use, you should ensure that you dilute your fertilizer and apply it while watering your China rose.

How do I fertilize my China rose?

Always follow directions for the specific type of fertilizer and do research on how to use it for the China rose you are growing. It is important not to over-fertilize your China rose, so determining the correct amount to use is crucial. The usual rule of thumb is to use the age of the tree (if known) or the diameter of the trunk to understand how much fertilizer should be used. Estimate a one-tenth of a pound of fertilizer per year or per inch of trunk, with a maximum of one pound.

Granular fertilizers and organic fertilizers such as blood meal are applied by sprinkling the substance around the base of the tree all the way to the drip line (the space below the farthest-reaching branches) but do not let fertilizer come in contact with the trunk. Over time, the granules break down and filter into the soil to be absorbed into the roots. After fertilizing, spread an inch-deep layer of compost around the base of the tree and water thoroughly.

What happens if I fertilize my China rose too much?

It is far better to under-fertilize than over-fertilize, since you can always add more but you cannot easily take away excess fertilizer. Over-fertilizing your China rose may cause brown leaf tips and edges, yellowing, wilting leaves, and possibly a visible crust of fertilizer salts on the surface of the soil around the tree. This condition is called fertilizer burn and results from too many accumulated salts in the plant’s cells. If excess nitrogen is the issue, the China rose will produce a lot of leaves but won’t grow much flowers since nitrogen supports foliage growth.

If you have overfertilized, you could try removing the top layer of soil under the China rose to remove the most concentrated area of fertilizer. Then flush the area by watering heavily to try to get rid of fertilizer around the roots.

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More About How-Tos

Explore 6 of plant how-tos on Feng shui direction, Water, Lighting, Temperature, Transplant, etc.

Feng shui direction

South

China rose, a vibrant and enchanting plant, is believed to impart positive energy when placed in the South-facing direction. This placement is said to enhance prosperity, social interaction, and recognition, owing to its association with the Fire element in Feng Shui. However, it is important to consider individual preferences and environmental factors for optimal balance and harmony.

Water

Every 1-2 weeks

For China rose, originating from warm climates, it prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering, particularly during its growing season. Be cautious not to overwater as it can lead to root rot. Water only when the top inch of soil is dry.

Lighting

Full sun

China rose prospers best in areas that receive ample light throughout the day. Partial exposure to light is also tolerable. Its underexposure can lead to stunted growth and faded blooms. However, overexposure might cause sunburn on leaves, especially during summer months.

Temperature

-10 to 35 ℃

China rose is a plant that requires a temperature range of 41 to 100 ℉ (5 to 38 ℃) for optimal growth. It is native to temperate regions with moderate temperature fluctuations. During different seasons, it is suggested to adjust the temperature accordingly to maintain its growth.

Transplant

2-3 feet

For china rose, the ideal season for transplanting is from late spring to midsummer, as it allows time for proper establishment before winter. Select a sun-filled location with well-draining soil. When necessary, apply balanced nutrients for enhanced growth.

Pollination

Normal

The enchanting china rose embraces bees as its main pollinators, luring them with an irresistible combination of vibrant colors and intoxicating scent. Reliably timely, its pollen release aligns with the bees' foraging timeline, utilizing a generalist pollination strategy for guaranteed success. This floral intrigue paints an exquisite picture of nature's intelligent design, echoing the enthralling dance of pollination.

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for China rose based on 10 million real cases

Flower withering

Flowers may dry out due to a sudden change in environment or because the plant has completed its normal flowering period.

Solutions: If flower withering is a natural progression due to age, there is nothing that can be done to slow or stop the process. Once hormones within the plant begin the process of senescence, it’s irreversible. For lack of water, immediately water the plant using room temperature rainwater, bottled spring water, or filtered tap water. Water container plants until excess water drains out the bottom; water in-ground plants until the soil is soaked but there isn’t standing water on the surface. In the event of nutritional deficiencies, the best solution is to use a granular or water-soluble liquid fertilizer, and apply it to the soil at about half the recommended dosage. Keep it off the leaves and make sure granular products are watered into the soil well. If the plant is infected with a bacterial or fungal pathogen, there is no course of treatment that cures the diseased plants. The best solution is to remove the infected plants and dispose of the plant material off-site. Do not put in a compost pile.

Wilting after blooming

Flowers may wither for a variety of reasons.

Solutions: Check the soil or potting medium. Coarse textures can allow water to drain too rapidly, preventing the plant from taking up enough. If the soil and roots seem very dry, add sphagnum moss or other mediums that hold water. Water according to recommendations for each plant's species. Low humidity can be corrected by misting the plant regularly or placing it near a humidifier. Keeping it near other plants helps, too. Keep the environment consistent in terms of temperature, humidity, and lighting. Keep it away from vents, heaters, and air conditioners, and avoid moving it to locations where it will experience a temperature shock. Hot, dry heat, and cold drafts are problematic for many plants. Especially if the plant is outside, it could be experiencing heat or light stress. Try moving it to a shadier location.

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Solutions: In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary. Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.

Leaf beetles

Leaf beetles are a class of colored insects 1 to 2 cm in size. They gnaw on leaves and petals resulting in small, round holes scattered over the surface.

Solutions: For less serious cases: Remove beetles, nymphs, and eggs. Remove all life stages of the beetles and kill them by placing them in a bucket of warm, soapy water. This can be done more easily by placing the bucket under affected leaves and shaking the plant. This method is most effective in the afternoon when leaf beetles are more active. Always dispose of insects in a sealed bag or container to avoid escape and spread. To treat more serious infestations: Apply organic insecticides. Use naturally-derived insecticides before moving on to synthetic insecticides. Neem oil and pyrethrum are naturally-derived insecticides that should be applied following label instructions. Apply synthetic insecticides. Examples of insecticides effective for leaf beetles include carbaryl, permethrin, and bifenthrin. Apply insecticides according to label instructions.

Black spot

Infection by the black spot pathogen causes black spots or patches to appear on leaves.

Solutions: Some steps to take to address black spot include: Prune away any infected leaves, cleaning the pruners between plants with a 10% bleach solution so that the fungus does not spread to healthy leaves. Don't compost pruned plant parts as the spores can linger in the soil for a long period of time - instead, dispose of them in the trash. Use an approved fungicide such as Trifloxystrobin, Chlorothalonil, Maneb, or Myclobutanil. Use a spreader in the fungicide spray to ensure better coverage.

Nutrient deficiencies

A lack of nutrients will cause a widespread yellowing of the leaves. The yellowing may begin at the base or top of the plant.

Solutions: There are several easy ways to remedy the nutrient deficiencies in soils. Use a water-soluble fertilizer. Fertilizers will include most or all of the macro and micro-nutrients the plants need to thrive. Adding some fertilizer to the soil will make those nutrients available and can combat deficiencies. Regularly apply organic fertilizer pellets. Organic fertilizers such as animal manures and bonemeal can supply plants with all the nutrients that they need to grow strong and healthy. Apply compost. Though not as finely tuned as artificial fertilizer, compost can nevertheless be rich in important nutrients and should be applied to the soil regularly. Apply nutrients via foliar application. In addition to supplementing the soil with nutrients, foliar fertilizer can be applied directly to the plant's leaves. Nutrients offered via foliar application are often taken up even quicker than those put in the soil, so the foliar application can be great for swiftly addressing specific deficiencies.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Garden

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Shrub, Vine

Flower Color

Purple

Red

White

Yellow

Bloom Time

Late spring, Summer, Early fall

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Garden rose

Rosa chinensis has many horticultural varieties, so it has many common names. Since it is most commonly used in gardens, and is also one of the most common plants found in a garden, its most popular name is the china rose.

China rose

As per its name, the Rosa chinensis originates from China, and is one of the flowers that represents the country.

Bengal rose

Bengal rose was also a historically-famous name for the plant, as it was used in Bengal to make dye.

Symbolism

Happiness, longevity, eternal spring

Usages

Artistic Value

The china rose is one of the favorites of Chinese artists. It is often used in watercolor paintings and stamps.

Environmental Protection Value

It can purify the air, effectively reduce noise pollution, and also absorb harmful gases.

Beauty Improvement Value

It can activate blood circulation and beautify the skin with its antioxidants and anti-aging properties. Method: use the petals to make tea or add into other herbal teas. To use topically, infuse petals in water.

Garden Use

China rose is a deciduous shrub commonly found in gardens. It is prized for its long-lasting continuous summer blooms. It has unordered flowers which makes it suitable for informal flowering hedges and mixed borders. China rose is appropriate for Victorian-style gardens where it is often trained to climb trellises. Plant with Cranesbill or English Lavender for strong color contrast.

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Family

Rose

Genus

Roses

Species

China rose

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Chinese ixora (Ixora chinensis) is a tropical evergreen shrub native to China and thus sometimes called simply Chinese Ixora. The red berries and clusters of bright flowers that bloom nearly year-round make this a popular ornamental plant.

Bloom Time

Spring, Summer

Garden Usage

The chinese ixora is a tropical shrub native to Southeast Asia that will flower year-round in warm climates. It's suitable for growing both in the ground and in containers, and it can also be used for bonsai cultivation. It makes an excellent colorful hedge in suitable climates too, and is relatively easy to care for. The chinese ixora can be found in different colors, including red, orange, pink, yellow, and white., Chinese ixora can grow 3 to 4.5 m tall or be kept pruned to a houseplant size. The flowers each have four petals and grow in large clusters, and are excellent for attracting hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies to a garden.

Garden tulip

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Garden mum is a Chinese native that has been cultivated as a medicinal and decorative plant for over 2000 years. Today, it is a gardening and florist favorite all over the world. Chrysanthemum × morifolium is a bushy perennial with dark-green leaves and numerous compact flower heads that come in a wide variety of colors. In English, it is affectionately known as “Mum.”

Bloom Time

Spring

Garden Usage

Garden mum is widely planted in courtyards and also used as flower arrangements. The leaves of annual garden mum tend to be thin with shallow tine cracks, making the leaves closer to a strip shape. Perennial garden mum has leaves with deep tine cracks and is darker in color, with smaller flowers and better hardiness.

Sweet osmanthus

Sweet osmanthus (Osmanthus fragrans) is a large evergreen flowering shrub. Sweet osmanthus's small white and orange flowers smell like apricots. This species is also referred to as by the Fragrant Tea Olive.

Bloom Time

Summer

Garden Usage

Grown as an evergreen shrub or a small tree, the sweet osmanthus is a slow-growing and relatively compact plant, making it perfect for balconies and patios. Many also choose to plant their sweet osmanthus near an outdoor seating area or a window, growing it as a dense shrub to make the most of its beautiful scent. However, the plant works well as a hedge too, providing a wall of fragrance during its flowering season. It grows to a variety of heights, making it extremely versatile - while some can soar up to 25 m tall, there are also dwarf varieties available that are perfect for containers., A hardy plant that is easy to look after and requires very little maintenance, the white flowers of the sweet osmanthus is complemented by glossy foliage that looks like holly (but isn't spiky), which is why the plant is often associated with the festive period.

Cock's comb

Cock's comb (Celosia cristata) is a crested flowering plant native to India. The plant is named for its blossom, which resembles the head of a rooster. Cock's comb is susceptible to fungal diseases.

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Trim the dead, diseased, overgrown branches in winter.

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Add to My Garden

China rose

Rosa chinensis

Also known as: Bengal rose

Water

Every 1-2 weeks

Sunlight

Full sun

Care Guide for China rose

Water

Fertilization

Pruning

Soil

Sand, Loam, Clay, Slightly acidic, Neutral, Slightly alkaline

Potting Suggestions

Increase pot diameter year by year, and replace pots before or after the winter each year. Masonry pots are preferred for potting.

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Questions About China rose

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What's the best method to water my China rose?

What should I do if I water China rose too much/too little?

How often should I water my China rose?

How much water do I need to give my China rose?

Should I adjust the watering frequency for my China rose according to different seasons or climates?

What should I be careful with when I water my China rose in different seasons, climates, or during different growing periods?

The age of the plants matter. Lack of water is one of the most common reasons the newly planted ones fail to grow. After they are established, you need to ease off the watering schedule.

Why is watering my China rose important?

Is pruning necessary for my China rose?

When is the best time to prune my China rose?

How can I prune my China rose?

How can I prune my China rose through different growth stages?

How can I prune my China rose during different seasons?

Are there any other tips and tricks for pruning my China rose?

How much/long should China rose get sunlight per day for healthy growth?

What type of sunlight does China rose need?

Can sunlight damage China rose? How to protect China rose from the sun and heat damage?

Does China rose need to avoid sun exposure? / Should I protect China rose from the sun?

What will happen if China rose gets inadequate sunlight?

Does China rose need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and China rose?

What is the optimal temperature for China rose?

Should I adjust the temperature for China rose during different growing phases?

How can I keep China rose warm in cold seasons?

What damage will China rose suffer if the temperature is too high/low?

What tips and cautions should I keep in mind when it comes to temperature for China rose?

How can I keep China rose warm without a heat pad?

How can I provide China rose with an adequate temperature condition?

How can I save China rose from temperature damage?

Should I adjust the temperature for China rose in different seasons?

Under what conditions should I stop adjusting the temperature for China rose?

Why do I need to fertilize my China rose?

When is the best time to fertilize my China rose?

When should I avoid fertilizing my China rose?

What type of fertilizer does my China rose need?

How do I fertilize my China rose?

What happens if I fertilize my China rose too much?

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More About How-Tos

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for China rose based on 10 million real cases

Flower withering

Flowers may dry out due to a sudden change in environment or because the plant has completed its normal flowering period.

Learn More

Wilting after blooming

Flowers may wither for a variety of reasons.

Learn More

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Learn More

Leaf beetles

Leaf beetles are a class of colored insects 1 to 2 cm in size. They gnaw on leaves and petals resulting in small, round holes scattered over the surface.

Learn More

Black spot

Infection by the black spot pathogen causes black spots or patches to appear on leaves.

Learn More

Nutrient deficiencies

A lack of nutrients will cause a widespread yellowing of the leaves. The yellowing may begin at the base or top of the plant.

Learn More

Treat and prevent plant diseases.

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Download the App

Distribution Map

Habitat

Garden

Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Shrub, Vine

Flower Color

Purple

Red

White

Yellow

Bloom Time

Late spring, Summer, Early fall

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Garden rose

China rose

As per its name, the Rosa chinensis originates from China, and is one of the flowers that represents the country.

Bengal rose

Bengal rose was also a historically-famous name for the plant, as it was used in Bengal to make dye.

Symbolism

Happiness, longevity, eternal spring

Usages

Artistic Value

The china rose is one of the favorites of Chinese artists. It is often used in watercolor paintings and stamps.

Environmental Protection Value

It can purify the air, effectively reduce noise pollution, and also absorb harmful gases.

Beauty Improvement Value

Garden Use

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

Family

Rose

Genus

Roses

Species

China rose

Find your perfect green friends.

Plan your green oasis based on your criteria: plant type, pet safety, skill level, sites, and more.

Download the App

Related Plants

Queen of the night

Epiphyllum oxypetalum

Chrysanthemum × morifolium

20 Flowers That Make Beautiful Cut Arrangements

Most Common Shrub