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Description
Rosa Moyessii Geranium, also known as Rosa moyesii, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to western China and Tibet and is mainly grown for its ornamental value. The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and has a spreading habit. It produces deep red, single flowers that bloom in early summer and are followed by bright orange-red hips in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Rosa |
Appearance
The Rosa Moyessii Geranium has a sprawling habit and can grow up to 10 feet tall and wide. The leaves are dark green and pinnate, with 5-7 leaflets. The deep red, single flowers are about 3 inches in diameter and bloom in early summer. The blooms are followed by bright orange-red hips, which are about 1 inch in diameter and persist into the winter. The plant has thorny stems and a rough, scaly bark.
Care Guide
The Rosa Moyessii Geranium is a relatively low-maintenance plant. Here are some care tips:
Water
The plant requires regular watering during the growing season, but be careful not to overwater as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall as this can encourage new growth that may not survive the winter.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce flowering.
Hardiness Zones
The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
While the Rosa Moyessii Geranium is relatively pest and disease-resistant, it can still be affected by some common issues.
Pests
Aphids and spider mites may infest the plant. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Diseases
The plant can be affected by powdery mildew, which appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. This can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant, avoiding overhead watering, and removing any infected leaves.
Habitat
The Rosa Moyessii Geranium is native to western China and Tibet, where it grows in mountainous regions at elevations of 8,000-14,000 feet.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Rosa Moyessii Geranium be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it will require regular watering and fertilization.
Q: Is the Rosa Moyessii Geranium deer-resistant?
A: While the plant is not completely deer-resistant, it is less likely to be damaged by deer than some other plants.
Q: How often should the Rosa Moyessii Geranium be pruned?
A: The plant does not require regular pruning, but it can be pruned in the late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged wood and to shape the plant.
Q: Can the hips of the Rosa Moyessii Geranium be used for cooking?
A: Yes, the hips can be used to make jams, jellies, and teas.
Related Plants
- Rosa canina
- Rosa glauca
- Rosa rugosa
- Rosa virginiana
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Rosa moyesii. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d626
- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Rosa moyesii. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/5612/Rosa-moyesii/Details
- University of Minnesota Extension. (n.d.). Roses. Retrieved from https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/roses
