Rosa banksiae

Banksia Rose, Lady Bank's Rose, Tombstone Rose

Vine

Rosa banksiae is a tough, shrubbing, evergreen vine growing to seven or nine feet with cascading branches to 15 feet.

Temperature

Hardy to 10F, but may lose leaves in coldest winters.

Water requirements

Moderate.

Sun

Part to full sun.

Soil

Tolerant but prefers well-prepared garden soil.

Maintenance

Periodic as an informal bank or trellis cover. Constant where it needs control during growing season. Don't prune before bloom.

Disadvantages

Rampant growth can take over. Occasional iron chlorosis.

Bloom

White flowers appear in April and May. The yellow variety has more blooms. Consist of many crinkled petals that look like popcorn from a distance. Little fragrance.

Uses

Bank cover, plant at top and stake down the sides of the bank. Can be grown on a trellis. Requires time for training and control.

Origin

Member of the Rosaceae family.

Cultivars

'Albo Plena' is white-flowering, has thorny branches and is partly to completely evergreen. 'Lutea' has yellow flowers, does not have thorns, is mostly deciduous and is easier to control.

Themes

Desert Transitional, Informal

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