Rosa chinensis f. viridiflora

Rosa chinensis f. viridiflora is also known as The Green Rose. It is a china rose.

This rose is of particular interest due to its unique flowering structure that consists of sepals, and not petals. While the flower may not be deemed traditionally attractive or typical in the world of roses, it is a fascinating oddity to behold. 

At Brookgreen Gardens, we have been continually impressed by how Rosa chinensis f. viridiflora has performed. We have found this rose to show very little signs or problems with black spot (Diplocarpon rosae) or other fungal problems. The flowering is consistent, the shrub is generally full with leaves, and it is overall a strong performer and a special specimen to include in the landscape.

Black spot can cause leaves to develop black spots with blurred edges, yellowing leaves, and eventually partial or entire defoliation. While black spot is rarely fatal, it can weaken the rose by reducing its leaves and therefore its ability to photosynthesize. Although similar in appearance to cercospora leaf spot, black spot can be distinguished by the less defined and more feathered edges of the spots. As with many fungal problems, issues are generally worse in areas with high humidity. Black spot can be treated chemically.