Rosa rubrifolia

Description: Unusually this rose is grown as much for its its attractive grey-green foliage and purplish-red stems as for the delicate small pink single flowers followed by bunches of red hips in the autumn.  Often grown as a purple leaved shrub for interest.

Uses: In any mixed border and can also be grown as a hedge.

Climate/Position: Any sunny position.

Height/Spread: reaches aprox 1.2 - 1.5 metres.

Soil Requirements: Though roses will tolerate most soil types, for best results roses prefer deep, rich, free draining soils with plenty of organic matter.

Avoid planting in sites that have previously been used for growing roses. Add organic matter before planting and mulch regularly for best results.

Pruning: As a species rose this should not really need pruning. Remove any dead and diseased stems and undertake any shaping in february. Avoid deadheading as the red hips are showy and add interest well into the autumn.

Harder pruning can be undertaken to encourage young purple shoots for added interest but best avaid this every year as it may erduce vigour of the plant.

Special Requirements: Feeding roses in spring and applying annual mulch will enhance performance, encourage healthy growth and lead to improved flowering.

Additional Interest: An old rose first introduced in 1831