Alpine rose - Rosa pendulina (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Alpine rose

Alpine rose (Rosa pendulina) is a deciduous perennial shrub that will grow to 1.8 m tall. A nearly thornless rose bush that produces rich pink flowers with bright yellow centers. Blooms profusely in spring, producing one single flower on each stem. Thrives in full sun and prefers rich, well-drained soil.

Scientific classification

Species

Alpine rose (Rosa pendulina)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

50 cm to 2 m

Plant Height

1.5 m

Spread

4 cm

Flower Size

White, Pink, Purple

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Alpine rose

Distribution of Alpine rose

Distribution Map

Alpine rose is naturally found across central and southern Europe as part of its native range. It thrives in diverse environments, from mountainous regions to various temperate zones. Beyond its natural habitat, alpine rose has been introduced to northern Europe and parts of Asia. It has adapted well outside its original distribution, being actively cultivated in many of these new areas.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Warmer, shadier, and wetter areas alongside streams, openings in forests, rock piles, mountains

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Often chosen by gardeners for its versatility in both climbing and self-supporting growth patterns, the beauty of its flowers and its relative shade-tolerance, the alpine rose is a good choice of ornamental in warm temperate, sunny regions. It is often grown in cottage gardens, in large beds, or on arbors.

Interesting Facts

As a wild rose plant, the alpine rose's flowers are not as dense as those cultivated roses found in gardens. Nor do the stems feature as many thorns. They do all come from the same category of plants, though - the Rosa genus. Alpine rose plants grow into low thickets and allow their fruit to droop on relatively pliable stalks.

Name Story

Alpine rose: The "alpine" in alpine rose refers to this plant's preferred habitat, having originally come from the Alps and Carpathian Mountains. The specific epithet, pendulina, refers to the drooping or "pendulous" habit of its ripened fruit. Indeed, that has earned it another name: drooping rose.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Alpine rose

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from mountainous regions, alpine rose thrives in well-drained soils with moderate moisture and cooler climates. It requires watering every three weeks, allowing soil to dry between sessions. Typically grown outdoors, alpine rose flourishes during the growing season due to cool temperatures and seasonal rainfall.

Fertilize: Alpine rose requires balanced fertilization, such as a 10-10-10 mix, applied biannually in early spring and midsummer. Use high nitrogen fertilizers sparingly during growth phases. Adjust feeding based on the lifecycle, with about one tablespoon per square foot, and always water thoroughly post-application.

Pruning: Alpine rose thrives with early spring pruning to enhance health and blooms. Key methods involve removing dead or diseased wood, thinning overcrowded branches for shape, and performing light pruning post-bloom to prevent overgrowth and encourage vigorous flowering next season.

Propagation: Alpine rose is easily propagated through cuttings from healthy stems, taken with a clean tool. While rooting hormone can aid success, alpine rose generally roots effectively without it. Use well-draining soil and maintain consistent moisture, providing a stable environment for optimal growth.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free