Miniature Rose
Rosa chinensis 'Minima'
A compact, woody perennial with small, serrated green leaves and multi-petaled yellow flowers. It features thorny stems and blooms as a smaller version of standard roses.
- Light
- Full sun to very bright indirect light; requires 6-8 hours of sunlight per day for optimal blooming.
- Water
- Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. They prefer consistent moisture but are susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Indoor plants may need more frequent watering due to low humidity.
- Growth
- Perennial shrub with a compact, mounding growth habit. Typically grows 6-18 inches tall and wide.
Care instructions
Provide at least 6 hours of bright light daily. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Feed with balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season and prune spent blooms to encourage new growth.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun to very bright indirect light; requires 6-8 hours of sunlight per day for optimal blooming.
Watering
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. They prefer consistent moisture but are susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Indoor plants may need more frequent watering due to low humidity.
Soil
Rich, well-draining potting mix with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0).
Hardiness zone
USDA Zones 5-9; indoor varieties are typically treated as houseplants or annuals in colder regions.
Growth habit
Perennial shrub with a compact, mounding growth habit. Typically grows 6-18 inches tall and wide.
Bloom season
Spring through Fall; produces small, clustered yellow blossoms with a mild fragrance.
Propagation
Most commonly propagated via softwood cuttings in late spring or summer; can also be grown from seed, though cultivars won't grow true to seed.
Common pests & issues
Susceptible to spider mites (especially indoors), aphids, powdery mildew, and black spot. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Similar species
Standard Tea Roses (much larger), Begonias (different leaf shape and texture), and Rose Kalanchoe (succulent leaves).