1. *Interior/Woods’ Rose – Rosa woodsii ssp ultramontana ( RO-zuh
WOOD-zee-eye)
Family: Rosaceae (Rose Family)
Native to: Species native to much of w. N. America from British Columbia/MT to AZ, NM. In CA, ssp.
ultramontana native to Sierras, San Gabriel/San Bernardino Mtns., desert ranges; usually in
seasonally moist places in Yellow Pine, other Forest types, or wetland-riparian, 3500-11500 feet.
woody shrub
mature height: 4-6+ ft.
mature width: spreading
Typical spreading wild rose forming mounds or thickets (with abundant water). Stems are straight,
red to grey-brown, with rather sparsely spaced straight prickles. Leaves are compound, similar to
but smaller than garden roses. Plants are fast growing and may be long-lived.
Growth characteristics:
Blooms in late spring/early summer,
are lovely single roses, usually medium to pale pink.
many be covered with blooms for a month or more.
among the best tasting of any wild rose – used for tea,
Blooms/fruits:
usually May-June in w. L.A. county. Flowers
Individual flowers are short-lived, but plant
Sweet scent. Flowers and fruits (hips) are
jelly, syrup, potpourri, etc.
Uses in the garden: Commonly used restoration plant on steep slopes at higher elevations. Makes a
nice specimen plant. May be grown for its fruits. Excellent addition to a habitat garden. Can be
used as a barrier plant. All parts used medicinally as well as for herbal teas, other edibles. Could
likely be grown in a large container. Very sensitive to sulfur dioxide (SO2) air pollution.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native roses.
Attracts: Excellent habitat: provides cover and fruits. Loved by native insect pollinators.
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Afternoon shade except along immediate coast.
Best in medium to coarse soils; any local pH.
Quite drought tolerant but best with occasional summer water (Zone 1-2 to 2).
Would gladly take ½ strength fertilizer – just don’t overdo.
Organic mulch is fine.
Prune out dead stems. Can cut back to rejuvenate. May want to contain – or
water only occasionally to limit growth rate. Don’t over-water; check for disease.
Management:
Propagation: from seed: requires rose-type pre-treatment
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers):
8, 11, 13
by cuttings/layering: yes
11/29/13
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