French rose - Rosa gallica (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

French rose

Also known as: Official Rose, Shrub Roses, Provence rose, Gallic rose

French rose (*Rosa gallica*) is a flowering deciduous shrub native to central and Southern Europe. It was one of the first rose species to be cultivated in Europe; french rose got its domesticated start with ancient Greeks and Romans and was later used in medieval gardens. Today, this cold-tolerant flower's numerous cultivars adorn gardens worldwide.

Scientific classification

Species

French rose (Rosa gallica)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

1 m to 2 m

Plant Height

1 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

4 cm to 7 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Red, Orange

Fruit Color

Pink, Red

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of French rose

Distribution of French rose

Distribution Map

French roses main origin is Europe, growing in sunny, well-drained soil, mainly in the forest. It was also introduced in North America and Australia.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Hedges, Woods, Calcareous soils

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

A long-standing garden favorite, french rose is prized for its extremely showy flowers with a delightful bouquet. This low-maintenance plant is a major attractor of butterflies and birds too. This rose makes a good bedding or border plant and is resilient enough to thrive in poor growing conditions. French rose is an asset to informal, coastal, and cottage gardens. Many plants make great partners for this rose, including bellflower, larkspur, pansies, and spurge.

Symbolism

Grace, sweetness, true love

Interesting Facts

The french rose has contributed to a great majority of modern European rose cultivars. These cultivars are so ancient that their exact origin and the species involved are usually lost to memory. However, all those that are believed to have Rosa gallica in their ancestry, and share similar traits, are considered part of the "Gallica Group" of rose cultivars.

Name Story

French rose: This plant is the most ancient cultivated rose. It was popularized by Europeans before 1250 AD. Its botanical name, Rosa gallica can be referred to the meaning of "Gallic rose of the herbalist's workshop". The meaning actually comes from Gaul which encompasses France. Hence, it is now called French rose.

Apothecary's rose: Long-time ago, it was believed that its fruits can be consumed as food and also, as a medical product. The fact that it is called apothecary's rose is enough to reflect its role in the early stage of medicine.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of French rose, including the following common varieties :

French rose 'Charles de Mills'French rose 'Versicolor'French rose 'Duchesse de Montebello'

Care Guide for French rose

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Thriving in temperate zones, french rose prefers moderate water, balancing moisture with well-drained conditions. Once established, it's moderately drought-tolerant; however, consistent moisture enhances growth and blooms. Water every 1-2 weeks, letting soil dry slightly, and use mulch to retain moisture during the growing season.

Fertilize: For optimal health, french rose needs balanced fertilizer with a 10-10-10 or 5-5-5 NPK ratio, applied every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Use about 1/2 cup per bush and water thoroughly. Decrease in fall to prep for dormancy, avoiding foliage contact to prevent root burn.

Pruning: French rose is a robust shrub with fragrant, deep-pink flowers. Prune in early spring by removing dead or diseased wood, thinning crowded stems, and cutting healthy stems back by one-third to boost blooming. Proper pruning enhances health, size control, and prolific flowering using sharp, clean tools.

Propagation: To propagate french rose, use healthy, disease-free cuttings and apply rooting hormone before planting in a well-draining medium. Ensure consistent moisture and warmth while avoiding waterlogging. Once rooted, harden off french rose prior to transplanting for optimal growth and resilience.

Repotting: Repot french rose every 2-3 years in early spring using a container one size larger. Water well post-repotting, place in full sun, and fertilize after new growth begins. Avoid overcrowding roots to ensure optimal health for this robust bush variety.

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Images of French rose

Distribution of French rose

Culture

Cultivars

Care Guide for French rose

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