shrub

Dorothy Perkins Rose Rugosa Rose

Rosa rugosa 'Dorothy Perkins'

The Story

Plant Bio

This cultivar is known for its abundant, semi-double pink flowers and strong fragrance.

Resistant to diseases such as black spot, and capable of thriving in less-than-ideal soil conditions.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides fragrant, attractive blooms and lush foliage, ideal for hedges and borders.
Practical UsesResistant to pests and diseases, low-maintenance for gardeners.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators like bees and butterflies with abundant nectar.
SpeciesRosa rugosaRugosa Rose

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

60 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate; prefers consistent moisture

Humidity

Average garden humidity

Lifespan

Many years with proper care

Native To

Asia and Europe

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck rooted cuttings into moist soil in early spring for best results.
  2. Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist during the growing season.
  3. Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new blooms.
  4. Fertilize with a balanced rose fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
  5. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Transplant in early spring or fall to avoid extreme temperatures.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining, slightly acidic soil for optimal growth and vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune to remove dead or diseased wood after flowering
  • Feed with a rose-specific fertilizer in spring and summer
  • Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

  • Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases ❌
  • Don’t over-fertilize, as it can cause excessive foliage with few blooms
  • Never ignore pest infestations or disease signs
  • Avoid planting in poorly drained soils to prevent root rot

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune
Spray

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant hedge with lush, dark green foliagePink-flowered border for a romantic garden touchClimbing rose for vertical accents and privacy screens

Companion Plants

Lavender SalviaCatmint Alliums Yarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Dorothy Perkins Rose Rugosa Rose questions

What zones can Dorothy Perkins Rose Rugosa Rose grow in?

Dorothy Perkins Rose Rugosa Rose is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Dorothy Perkins Rose Rugosa Rose deer resistant?

Yes — Dorothy Perkins Rose Rugosa Rose is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Dorothy Perkins Rose Rugosa Rose bloom?

Dorothy Perkins Rose Rugosa Rose typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Dorothy Perkins Rose Rugosa Rose need full sun?

Dorothy Perkins Rose Rugosa Rose does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Dorothy Perkins Rose Rugosa Rose drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Dorothy Perkins Rose Rugosa Rose handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Dorothy Perkins Rose Rugosa Rose with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.