Rosa x centifolia

The Provence Rose is a  hybrid Centifolia rose in the Rosaceae family thought to have been developed by Dutch breeders several hundred years ago. Parentage has not been established. Centifolias are known as cabbage roses. Several sports of this plant and cultivars have been developed.

This variety of rose is a flowering shrub with an upright arching twiggy habit that grows 4-5 feet tall and 2-4 feet wide. The Provence Rose prefers full sun and well-drained moist soil, but will tolerate some shade and sandy, loamy, or clay soils. It produces a few suckers if grown on its own rootstock and hybridizes freely with other roses. Propagate by division during dormancy. Prune after flowering to remove dead or diseased canes. In late winter it can be lightly pruned to reduce size.

The fragrant pink or lavender flowers blossom in early summer. The flowers are large, globular and very fragrant. Large leathery leaves are on stems with many prickles.

This ornamental shrub can be grown as la ow hedge or in tubs. It is primarily grown for the perfume industry and may be hard to find. Cultivars may be more readily available.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: Plants in the Rosa genus are susceptible to honey fungus. Garlic planted nearby, can help protect the plant from disease and insects. See pests of roses to the left. Deer will browse roses.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information center has fact sheets on growing roses, including R. centifolia, and on common diseases and common pests.

VIDEO Created by Elizabeth Meyer for "Trees, Shrubs and Conifers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

More information on Rosa.