Rose at a glance
| Botanical name | Rosa hybrids |
|---|---|
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Other names | garden rose, hybrid tea, shrub rose |
| Plant type | Shrub; woody perennial shrub |
| Size | 1 to 8 feet tall, 1 to 6 feet wide, depending on the type |
| Light | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sun) |
| Water | Water deeply at the base, about once a week in dry weather. Keep leaves dry to limit disease. |
| Soil | Rich, well-drained soil with organic matter; slightly acid to neutral. |
| USDA hardiness zones | Garden roses as a group grow in zones 5 to 11. Hardiness differs by variety, so check the plant tag. |
| USDA PLANTS symbol | ROSA5 |
When to plant rose
Plant bare-root roses in early spring while they are dormant. Potted roses can go in from spring to early fall.
Turn these into real dates for your area with the planting calendar.
How to grow rose
- Choose a spot with at least 6 hours of direct sun and good air flow.
- Dig a wide hole and mix compost into the soil you took out.
- Set the plant at the depth the label suggests, fill in and water well.
- Spread mulch around the base, keeping it off the canes.
- Water deeply once a week in dry spells.
- Prune in late winter or early spring: remove dead, damaged and crossing canes.
Water and soil
Water: Water deeply at the base, about once a week in dry weather. Keep leaves dry to limit disease.
Soil: Rich, well-drained soil with organic matter; slightly acid to neutral.
Light: Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sun).
Common problems
- Black spot
- Black spots on leaves that then turn yellow and drop. Choose resistant varieties, water at the base and clear fallen leaves.
- Powdery mildew
- White powder on leaves, worst in shade and crowded beds. More sun and air flow help.
- Aphids
- Small soft insects on new growth. A strong spray of water knocks them off.
Is rose safe for cats and dogs?
Non-toxic
Non-toxic
The ASPCA lists Rose (Rosa Species) as non-toxic to cats and non-toxic to dogs. ASPCA entry.
If a pet chews a plant and you are worried, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435; a fee may apply). For people, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222. In an emergency, call 911.
Can you eat rose?
The petals and the hips (fruit) are edible if the plant has not been sprayed with chemicals not meant for food.
Rose questions
Are roses toxic to cats and dogs?
The ASPCA lists roses as non-toxic to cats and dogs. The thorns can still scratch, so watch curious pets.
How much sun do roses need?
Roses need full sun, which means 6 or more hours of direct sun a day. Fewer hours means fewer flowers and more disease.
When should I prune roses?
Prune most roses in late winter or early spring, as buds begin to swell. Remove dead, damaged and crossing canes first.
Sources
- NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox: Rose (size, light, soil, zones, poison rating)
- USDA PLANTS Database profile: Rosa L. (accepted name)
- ASPCA: Rose (pet toxicity)
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: plants toxic and non-toxic to cats
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: plants toxic and non-toxic to dogs
Written in our own words from the sources above. See our editorial policy. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.
