Downy rose (Rosa tomentosa)
Care, watering, light and tips for Downy rose on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Rosaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–30 °C
About Downy rose
Rosa tomentosa, also known as the Downy Rose or Shaggy Rose, is a deciduous wild rose native to Europe. It is characterized by its densely hairy (tomentose) leaves, which give it a soft feel, and its pale pink flowers followed by red rose hips. It is ideal for natural hedges, woodland edges, or wildlife gardens, adding a rustic touch and attracting local fauna.
Native range
Europe and Western Asia
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade locations and adapts to a wide range of soils, as long as they are well-drained. It is very drought-tolerant once established, so watering should be moderate, avoiding waterlogging. It does not require strict pruning, but dead or diseased wood can be removed to maintain its shape. A common mistake is planting it in very heavy, clayey soils without improving drainage, which can lead to fungal diseases.
How to save a dying Downy rose
- Warning signs
- Pale or yellowing leaves, wilting, spots or holes. Premature leaf and bud drop.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture, prune dry/diseased branches, apply fungicide for spots. Relocate to semi-shade.
- What kills it
- Extreme over/underwatering, lack of pruning, untreated pests, or insufficient sun.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't rotted and main stem isn't completely dry.