Troubleshooting
Felicia Rose problems — and how to fix them
Felicia Rose (Rosa 'Felicia') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Blackspot
Common in damp summers, producing dark spots and early leaf fall. Reduce with leaf clean-up, base watering, mulch and an open habit, and by favouring a relatively healthy cultivar like Felicia.
Aphids
Soft green or pink aphids colonise new shoots and buds, distorting growth and leaving honeydew. Knock off with water, squash by hand or encourage natural predators.
Rose rust
Orange-brown pustules under leaves in wet conditions cause yellowing and defoliation. Remove infected foliage, avoid overhead watering and improve airflow around the shrub.
Reduced flowering in shade
Although shade-tolerant, bloom thins and stems lengthen in deep shade or poor soil. Plant in the brightest practical spot and feed generously to keep flowering strong.
Prevent felicia rose problems before they start
Most felicia rose issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for felicia rose in general rather than its problems? Read the full felicia rose care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Felicia Rose problems — FAQ
Why is my felicia rose blackspot?
Common in damp summers, producing dark spots and early leaf fall. Reduce with leaf clean-up, base watering, mulch and an open habit, and by favouring a relatively healthy cultivar like Felicia.
Why is my felicia rose aphids?
Soft green or pink aphids colonise new shoots and buds, distorting growth and leaving honeydew. Knock off with water, squash by hand or encourage natural predators.
Why is my felicia rose rose rust?
Orange-brown pustules under leaves in wet conditions cause yellowing and defoliation. Remove infected foliage, avoid overhead watering and improve airflow around the shrub.
Why is my felicia rose reduced flowering in shade?
Although shade-tolerant, bloom thins and stems lengthen in deep shade or poor soil. Plant in the brightest practical spot and feed generously to keep flowering strong.