Rosa Laevigata - Cherokee rose

Rosa Laevigata, known in German as a Cherokee rose, belongs to the Rosaceae family. This species is valued for its robust properties and its large, attractive flowers. Rosa Laevigata was first described by the British botanist John Lindley in the early 19th century. The genus Rosa comprises about 150 to 200 species that are widespread worldwide in moderate and subtropical zones. Rosa Laevigata is particularly native to East Asia.

Morphological characteristics

Rosa Laevigata is an evergreen to semi -green shrub or climbing shrub, which can reach a height of up to 5 meters. The plant has an expansive, climbing growth shape with long, strong drives that are occupied with numerous, curved spines. The leaves are feathered, consisting of three elliptical to egg -shaped leaves that have a length of 3 to 7 centimeters. They are shiny dark green and lighter and slightly hairy on the top.

The flowers of Rosa Laevigata are large, simple and shell -shaped, with a diameter of 6 to 10 centimeters. They are white and have five petals and numerous yellow stamens that form a striking contrast. The flowering period ranges from April to June, with the flowers exuding a pleasant, mild fragrance. After flowering, large, spherical, orange-red rose hips develop that have a diameter of about 2.5 to 3 centimeters and contain several seeds.

Ecological claims and distribution

Rosa Laevigata prefers sunny to partially shaded locations and thrives best in well -permeable, slightly acidic to neutral soils. The plant is relatively resistant to dryness and can adapt to a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy and stony floors. It is hardy and can withstand temperatures up to -12 ° C, which makes it suitable for cultivation in moderate climates.

The natural spread of Rosa Laevigata extends over southern China, Taiwan and parts of Japan, where it typically grows in light forests, on forest edges and in bushes. Because of its decorative properties and its robustness, it was introduced and cultivated in other parts of the world, especially in the southern United States, where it has partly proven to be invasive.

Cultural and gardening importance

Rosa Laevigata has a long history of use in garden art and landscaping. The plant is often planted as an ornamental shrub in gardens and parks, often as climbing rose on pergolas, fences and walls to ensure an attractive bloom. Cherokee rose is also known for its robust properties that make them resistant to diseases and pests.

In landscape design, Rosa Laevigata is appreciated because of its ability to grow quickly and to form dense hedges that are both aesthetically appealing and practical as privacy protection. They also make their spines an effective barrier against intruders. Historically, the plant in the United States was used as a symbol of the Cherokee Indians and is now the state flower of Georgia.

Care and increase

The care of Rosa Laevigata is relatively uncomplicated. The plant only needs minimal care as soon as it is established. An occasional pruning promotes a thicker growth shape and removes dead or damaged branches. The plant should be irrigated during longer dry periods to avoid stress, especially in the first years after planting. Regular fertilization with a balanced rose fertilizer supports growth and flower formation.

The propagation is mainly carried out by cuttings or lowerers, as these are more reliable methods than sowing. Coats are taken in late spring or early summer and rooted in a damp, well -permeable substrate. The propagation by root cuttings is also possible and is often practiced in professional horticultural companies.