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Overview
Rosa filipes is an original species of white rose from China that scrambles and/or climbs exceptionally well.
The simple five petalled flowers are around 2cms in diameter and produced in corymbs of multiple blooms, sometimes numbering up to one hundred, these then mature to red hip fruits.
This is a very vigorous rose that has plenty of thorns to help it climb well. It will need something large to scramble over otherwise it will just strangle the closest large structure or tree in sight.
The most famous cultivar of this species is at Kiftsgate gardens in the Cotswolds, UK that has scrambled over walls and up a into a Beech tree. It has relatively large, fragrant flowers that are up to 45cms diameter and has grown to 15 metres in height and 24 metres wide. It is truly spectacular.
Soil: Rich, slightly acid, loamy soil, moisture retentive but with good drainage.
A layer of mulch will always be beneficial to help retain access to moisture in dry periods.
Choose a location that will get at least half day sun, allowing for its eventual height e.g. if it climbs into a tree it will receive shade there.
Maintenance: Allow to climb and ensure plenty of support available.
Pruning is vital and should be performed as required e.g. when it gets to your preferred maximum size. It doesn't matter what season, just cut it back otherwise it will get away and swamp the immediate surroundings.
Spray for pests and diseases as required, especially blackspot and aphids.
Water deeply and mulch well.
Feed with blood and bone or a balanced rose formulated fertiliser.
Diseases: Black spot, downy mildew, aphids.
Other Species: There are 150 species of roses but thousands of hybrid derivatives.
Roses have been in cultivation for around 2,500 years and undoubtedly the most popular garden plant of all.
Comments: The species name 'filipes' comes from the threadlike stems from which the flowers and hips hang.
Beware the thorns, which can be vicious. Although this is a popular rose for cultivation it seems to have a love/hate relationship with its owners, often being described as like having a panther or tiger in your garden. It is truly beautiful but vicious at times too and blood will surely flow when it comes time to keep it in control.
Author: Bob Saunders.