Carolina Rose

Rosa carolina

Commonly called the “pasture rose,” Rosa carolina is a low-growing shrub, typically around four feet high at maturity, and generally upright. In early summer it bears an abundance of 2-3 inch wide bright pink flowers …

More Detail
Plants 1 Gallon Pot
1+ $22.50 $29.99 ea.
Availability: In stock
SKU
37930-GL
Cultural Details
Soil Type Loam, Sand
Soil Moisture Dry, Medium, Moist
Sun Exposure Full Sun, Partial
Height 2' - 5'
Bloom Color Pink
Bloom Time June, July, Aug
Spacing 3'
Hardiness Zones 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Root Type Rhizome, Taproot
Benefits Birds, Pollinators, Host Plant, Deer Resistant

Commonly called the “pasture rose,” Rosa carolina is a low-growing shrub, typically around four feet high at maturity, and generally upright. In early summer it bears an abundance of 2-3 inch wide bright pink flowers with yellow centers. The blooms are more plentiful in full sun, but this native rose is also more shade tolerant than most. Strongly serrate dark green leaves are a distinctive feature, and the stems are prickly with straight needle-like thorns. A deep taproot makes this rose very drought tolerant. It also produces shallow rhizomes and will spread to form a loose thicket if left to its own devices. The rate of spreading is typically slow and rhizomatous growth can be removed on a yearly basis to control spreading. This wild rose does not need a support, but it does look great growing against a low fence!

Native roses are visited by an array of pollinating insects, as they have easy access to pollen from the large-petalled landing pads. Both Rosa carolina and  Rosa blanda are host plants for large sphinx moths, such as the Apple Sphinx, the Blinded Sphinx, Automeris Io, Polyphemus, and Cecropia. The bright red rosehips, abundant at the end of the season, are a popular source of food for fruit-loving birds. Rosehips are high in vitamin C and can be used in teas.

Planting and Cultivation Notes
Mulch can be applied to help retain moisture and keep the roots cool. Pruning can be done in late winter to early spring. Good air circulation will help support the natural disease resistance of this species.