Rose Tree Facts

Appearance

• The rose tree is a small tree, usually not more than 5 feet high, that is shaped like a topiary bush. The roses grow from the top of the tree. Some rose trees have two layers of roses, one near the base of the trunk and one at the very top of the trunk. The trunk of the tree is very thin, usually not more than 1 or 2 inches thick. Almost any color of rose can grow from rose trees, because many different varieties of roses can be formed into rose trees. Common colors are white, red and pink.

Development

• The development of a rose tree takes several years of meticulous training and pruning. Several different rose bushes are grafted onto the stem of one rose, which is used as the trunk of the tree. The grafting process is fairly difficult, and many problems occur because of the unusual shape of the tree.

Care

• Care for the rose tree is somewhat difficult because of the unusual shape. The tree base usually is not strong enough to support the weight of the tree and must be staked to add extra support. Frequent pruning is also necessary to keep the roses in the tree shape that is desired. If allowed to grow naturally, the rose tree will gradually return to bush form. Pruning is done as if the bush part of the tree was resting on the ground. Trim any stems that grow out of the desired circular shape. The cane should be wrapped in winter to prevent freezing.

Uses

• The rose tree is used for a variety of landscaping purposes. It can be used as a backdrop for smaller plants or used to line a garden bed alone. The rose tree also can stand alone in the middle of the yard. Several rose trees make an interesting arrangement planted in a topiary garden or other large garden.

Climate

• The rose tree can grow in the same climate as regular rose bushes. U.S. hardiness zones 4 to 9 are the ideal growing zones for the rose tree because of the milder winters. Harsh winters can freeze the plant, causing dieback or the death of the entire tree. The tree prefers full to partial sunlight and is very drought tolerant.