While roses have developed a reputation for being “difficult” to grow over the years, there are a number of rose varieties that require no, or minimal care. Below are a few roses that make it easy for the beginning gardener to grow beautiful roses.
Eglantine Rose (Rosa Rubiginosa) – The Wild Rose
The Eglantine Rose from Wikipedia
Wild roses are found on almost every continent. While truly a “no care” rose, care must be taking when choosing this species. Like all plants, when grown in its native climate, natural inhibitors are found in the soil that prevent the wild rose from becoming invasive. However when a plant is transported to a foreign climate, those inhibitors are missing and it can overrun an area. The Rosa Rubiginosa is considered a weed in parts of Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. It is so invasive in those areas that the sale and propagation of the plant is prohibited.
However, in areas where the rose does not disrupt the natural balance of the ecosystem, the same rose plant is considered a valuable resource. In the South American countries of Chile and Argentina, the plant is used to produce marmalade and cosmetics. In Tunisia, the wild roses are used to make natural flower water which is used as an organic skin cleanser and toner.
Martha Gonzales Rose
The Martha Gonzales rose is considered a “found” china rose. It was discovered at the home of Martha Gonzales in Navasota, Texas, in 1982, by Pam Puryear. It is considered an “almost wild” rose, needing minimal care and it can tolerate dry conditions as well as shade. As it is a continuous bloomer from mid spring to frost, it has become a favorite landscape plant in zones 7 to 9.
The Knock Out Rose
The ARS Members Choice Award in 2004, the Knock Out rose is not only known for its beauty, but the ease with which it is grown as well. Popular as either a landscape or container rose, it is resistant to common rose problems such as blackspot and Japanese Beetles. For those who would like the easy of care of the Knock Out, but want something a little different than the standard red, the rose also comes in a pink and rainbow variety.
Chinese Butterfly Rose (Rosa mutabilis)
Another easy to grow favorite among rose gardeners is the Chinese Butterfly rose. Its claim to fame are the multicolor blooms the plant produces. The butterfly rose can produce up to seven different colors of blooms on one rose bush, creating a spectacular display.
Related posts:
