Troubleshooting
Penelope Rose problems — and how to fix them
Penelope Rose (Rosa 'Penelope') 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
Dark, ragged-edged leaf spots leading to early defoliation in wet seasons. Reduce by clearing fallen leaves, watering at the base, mulching and maintaining an open, airy canopy.
Rose rust
Orange pustules on leaf undersides in damp summers cause yellowing and leaf drop. Remove and dispose of affected leaves, avoid overhead watering and improve air movement around the plant.
Aphids
Soft-bodied colonies on new growth and flower buds distort shoots and excrete sticky honeydew that attracts sooty mould. Wash off with water or rely on natural predators like ladybirds and lacewings.
Fewer hips after pruning
Deadheading and routine pruning prevent the decorative autumn hips from forming. To enjoy the coral-pink hips, leave the final flush of flowers unpruned through autumn.
Prevent penelope rose problems before they start
Most penelope rose issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for penelope rose in general rather than its problems? Read the full penelope rose care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Penelope Rose problems — FAQ
Why is my penelope rose blackspot?
Dark, ragged-edged leaf spots leading to early defoliation in wet seasons. Reduce by clearing fallen leaves, watering at the base, mulching and maintaining an open, airy canopy.
Why is my penelope rose rose rust?
Orange pustules on leaf undersides in damp summers cause yellowing and leaf drop. Remove and dispose of affected leaves, avoid overhead watering and improve air movement around the plant.
Why is my penelope rose aphids?
Soft-bodied colonies on new growth and flower buds distort shoots and excrete sticky honeydew that attracts sooty mould. Wash off with water or rely on natural predators like ladybirds and lacewings.
Why is my penelope rose fewer hips after pruning?
Deadheading and routine pruning prevent the decorative autumn hips from forming. To enjoy the coral-pink hips, leave the final flush of flowers unpruned through autumn.