Rose 'Angel Wings'

Angel Wings Mix (Rosa Chinensis)

Soft petals whispering in tones of shell, blush, and pale peach—Rosa chinensis ‘Angel Wings’ offers with its petite rose forms a delicate serenade to small gardens. Each bloom floats upon its stems in single, semi-double or fully double forms, painting a mosaic of pastel hues and subtle bicolours. The compact frame—ranging around 12–18 in high—makes this rose a graceful focal in containers or nestled into border fronts.

A true garden companion, Angel Wings repeats in gentle waves from spring through frost, each flush delivering quiet fragrance and a sense of perpetual renewal. Its diminutive size belies its presence in a mixed arrangement: let it mingle with soft pink snapdragons for a romantic echo, or set it beside creamy statice to let the rose tones soften against papery texture.

DETAILS:

QTY: 15

TYPE: Perennial (Zones 4-9)

SITE: Full Sun

DEPTH: 1/8 - 1/4" 

GERMINATION: 30-45 days at 21°C 

HEIGHT: 12 - 18”

MATURITY: 100 - 120 Days

SPACING: 14-18”

PINCH: No

HOW TO GROW:

Lightly scratch the outer shell (scarify), and soak for 12-24 hours. Place seeds in a damp mix of peat/sand/vermiculite (or a damp paper towel) and seal in a bag. Refrigerate at 1-4°C for 60 to 100 days. Sow after stratification, approximately 6-8 weeks before last frost.  Cover 1/8-1/4" deep in warm potting mix under bright light. Provide consistent moisture. Be patient as germination is very slow. 

Once seedlings have developed their first true leaves and have robust roots, transplant them into larger pots. Before moving outside permanently (after all danger of frost is gone), gradually acclimate the young plants to outdoor conditions over a period of 7-10 days (hardening off).

Soil & Fertilizing:

• Soil Preference: China Roses prefer rich, loamy, moist, but well-drained soil. Amend heavy clay or sandy soils with plenty of organic matter (compost or well-rotted manure) to improve drainage and fertility.

  Fertilizing: Roses are heavy feeders. Apply a balanced, slow-release rose fertilizer in early spring as new growth appears. Continue to fertilize monthly throughout the growing season (spring and summer), stopping 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost to prevent new growth that could be damaged by cold.

Watering & Pests:

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season, especially in the first year to establish deep roots. Water deeply at the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the foliage, as moisture on leaves can encourage fungal diseases like black spot and powdery mildew. Check the soil: water when the top inch is dry to the touch.

• Pests & Diseases: Susceptible to common rose problems, including black spot (fungus) and powdery mildew. Good air circulation and watering at the base are the best preventative measures. Watch for common pests like aphids and spider mites.

Pruning & Maintenance:

• Pruning (Annual): Perform the main pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove dead, diseased, or weak canes and any canes thinner than a pencil. You can prune hard (up to one-third to two-thirds of the height) to reshape the plant and encourage robust new growth.

• Deadheading (Seasonal): Because China Roses bloom continuously, frequent deadheading (removing spent or faded flowers) is essential to promote further flushes of bloom throughout the spring, summer, and fall. Snip the spent flower just above the first set of healthy, outward-facing leaves.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the stem to prevent rot.