How to Grow Apothecary's Rose
iNaturalist
Apothecary's Rose
Rosa gallica officinalis
shrubApothecary's Rose is a historic damask rose cultivar with semi-double, fragrant crimson-red flowers that have been valued for centuries in herbal medicine and perfumery. This heirloom shrub is one of the oldest garden roses, dating back to at least medieval times, and is known for its rich fragrance and healing properties. It grows as a compact, dense shrub ideal for small gardens, cottage gardens, and ornamental landscapes.
When should you plant Apothecary's Rose in your zone?
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Example Apothecary's Rose timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Apothecary's Rose
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Apothecary's Rose
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-9, with best performance in zones 5-8
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Dormancy & Planting
1-2 monthsBare-root canes appear leafless and woody; container plants show initial growth
Plant in early spring or fall. Soak bare-root plants for 12-24 hours before planting. Ensure good drainage and mulch after planting.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 months (spring-early summer)Canes develop leaves and branching structure; plant becomes fuller and more established
Prune in early spring to shape plant and remove dead canes. Apply balanced fertilizer monthly. Monitor for pests and diseases.
Bud Formation & Flowering
2-3 months (late spring-summer), often repeat blooming into fallFlower buds appear at stem tips; semi-double crimson blooms open with strong fragrance
Continue regular watering. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage repeat flowering. Reduce nitrogen fertilizer; use bloom-promoting formula.
Peak Bloom & Fragrance
4-6 weeks per bloom cycleMaximum flower production; heaviest fragrance release, especially in morning and evening
Harvest flowers for drying, fragrance, or herbal preparations early morning when fragrance is strongest. Continue light deadheading.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water jet; use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs.
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Hand-pick sawfly larvae; apply spinosad or neem oil in spring when first noticed.
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Improve air circulation; avoid wetting foliage. Apply sulfur dust or potassium bicarbonate spray. Remove affected leaves.
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Remove infected leaves promptly; improve drainage and air flow. Apply fungicide spray weekly if severe.
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Spray with water to increase humidity; use miticide or neem oil if populations become severe.
Uses
Herbal Remedies & Skincare
MedicinalApothecary's Rose petals have been traditionally used to make infusions, teas, and tinctures for digestive support, skin health, and emotional well-being. The rose water and petal extracts are prized in natural cosmetics and beauty preparations. [source]
Culinary & Beverage Uses
CulinaryPetals can be candied, added to salads, used to make rose water, or steeped into herbal teas and syrups. The flavor is delicate, slightly tart, and fragrant. [source]
Fragrance & Perfumery
HouseholdDried petals are used in pot-pourri, sachets, and perfumery. The essential oil and fragrance have been prized since medieval times for aromatherapy and scenting linens and homes. [source]
Drying & Craft Projects
CraftFlowers dry beautifully and retain color and fragrance for months, making them ideal for dried arrangements, pressed flower crafts, and ornamental display. [source]
Pollinator & Wildlife Support
WildlifeSemi-double blooms attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators. Hips (if allowed to develop) provide food for birds and wildlife in fall and winter. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest flowers in early morning after dew dries but before heat of day for maximum fragrance and essential oil content. Cut stems with 2-3 leaves just below the flower. For drying, hang bundles upside-down in cool, dark, well-ventilated space for 2-3 weeks. Pick petals at peak bloom for herbal preparations, teas, and pot-pourri. Best harvested when blooms are just opening to full flower stage.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Apothecary's Rose is one of the oldest continuously cultivated garden roses, with records dating back to at least the 12th century and possibly ancient Roman times, making it a true heirloom plant.
- 🌱 This rose was the official emblem of the House of Lancaster during the War of the Roses in 15th-century England, symbolizing a significant moment in British history.
- 🌱 The rose has been used in traditional medicine and perfumery for over 1,000 years; medieval apothecaries dried and prepared petals for remedies, which is how it earned its 'Apothecary's' name.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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