Woods’ Rose (Rosa woodsii)

by Cindy HoffmanAlternate common names: mountain rose, wild roseThe botanical term for a wild rose is “a species that occurs naturally, with no help from man, a true wildflower.” The American Rose Society puts all wild roses in a category called “species roses.” All wild, native, and species roses belong to the Rosacea plant family. Though the term “wild” is often used interchangeably with “native” and “species” to describe roses, wild roses are not necessarily native roses. Many wild roses are naturalized European, Middle Eastern, or Asian roses that have escaped and proliferated, often at the expense of native species. Most roses found in abandoned homesteads or graveyards are neither wild nor native but just tough old roses.Of the 25 wild native roses in the United States, five are specifically identified in New Mexico. No native rose has ever been found to originate south of the equator. According to fossil history, the first rose was found in Colorado, 35 million years ago.Rosa woodsiiis native throughout the West. A rambunctious, drought-tolerant, pest- and disease-resistant plant, it tolerates nearly any soil type and can grow practically anywhere, in sun or shade. Perfect for New Mexico. Its fragrant, large pink blossoms make a brief appearance in late spring, followed by small, apple-like red hips in late summer. These hips, rich in Vitamins A and C, often last through winter and are an important source of sustenance for birds and mammals.Planting and care:Cuttings may be used for propagation. Plant bare-root or from nursery pots throughout the spring and summer. Once established, no fertilizer or pruning and little supplemental water are required. Rosa woodsiishould not be grown as a typical garden rose. It can become too happy (aggressive) if given a lot of water. If you want to control this wild thing, make sure to remove the suckers that come up at or near the base of the plant.Landscaping use:Useful as a hedge and for wildlife habitat. The extensive root system can serve as erosion control on difficult slopes and in other harsh areas. With its ample curved and prickled branches that form thickets, it can be grown as a barrier shrub to protect farm animals or pets from predators.Plant type:perennial deciduous shrubFlower:symmetric 5-petal, 2-inch bloomsBloom time:once-blooming, May to JuneHeight:3 to 6 feetExposure:full sun to part shadeMoisture:xeric, lowZones:2a–10References:Allred, Kelly W., and Robert DeWitt Ivey. Flora Neomexicana III: An Illustrated Identification Manual(LuLu, 2012)Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Rosa woodsiiSouthwest Colorado Wildflowers, Rosa woodsii