Climbing Plants

Lady Banks' Rose

Rosa banksiae

Rosa banksiae is a climbing rose with small white flowers blooming in spring. It tolerates warm climates and suits fences and walls.

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Attributes

Type

Climber, semi evergreen

Spread

2.5 – 4.0 m

Soil

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Min. temperature

-5 °C

Data: Royal Horticultural Society, Missouri Botanical Garden

Drought tolerant Low maintenance

Care guide

Sun

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Low

Height

3–6 m

Hardiness

Medium

Flowering

Spring

Foliage

Semi-evergreen

Safety

Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers

In Cyprus

This is the single white form of Rosa banksiae, usually called Rosa banksiae var. normalis by botanists. Trees and Shrubs Online describes it as the wild form of the species, with single, white, fragrant flowers. It is a vigorous climbing rose that needs room and a strong support. For the species, NC State recommends full sun or partial shade, well-drained soil and good air circulation. Its water needs are average: water regularly until it has established, then according to soil moisture and the weather, without overdoing it. In frost-prone areas, suitability depends on the local microclimate. Plant in autumn or spring beside a sturdy support.

Uses in gardens and projects

It covers fences, walls, pergolas and boundaries and hides unsightly surfaces; NC State also suggests it as a barrier or privacy screen. For the species Rosa banksiae, NC State gives a height of about 4.5–12 m and a spread of 1.8–3 m, so it belongs where there is a large surface to cover. The small white flowers come in clusters, mainly in spring. NC State advises no routine pruning beyond removing dead wood; if you need to reduce its size, prune straight after flowering.

Frequently asked questions

How big does it get?: For the species Rosa banksiae, NC State gives a height of about 4.5–12 m and a spread of 1.8–3 m; we found no separate figures for the single white form. Pruning keeps it smaller.
When does it flower?: Mainly in spring, with clusters of small, single, white, fragrant flowers.
Does it have thorns?: The Lady Banks' rose usually seen in gardens has thornless stems. For the single white form (var. normalis), however, Trees and Shrubs Online notes that the stems are often armed with hooked prickles, which is worth bearing in mind next to paths.
Is it evergreen?: It is treated as semi-evergreen: in mild winters it keeps much of its foliage (NC State lists it as evergreen in the warmer USDA zones 8–10), while in colder spots it may drop some leaves.