Rosa carolina (Pasture Rose)

A genuine native alternative to invasive multiflora rose, pasture rose is confirmed resistant to rose rosette virus and serves as a documented larval host for the Polyphemus moth - part of a broader group of native roses supporting 114 documented Lepidoptera species combined.

Species Overview

Rosa carolina, commonly called pasture rose or Carolina rose, is a woody deciduous shrub native to eastern and central North America, growing 6 inches to 5 feet tall. It produces single, fragrant, rich rose-pink flowers with bright yellow stamens from May to June, followed by showy red hips that persist through fall and winter as food for wildlife.

Application

• Native hedge and pollinator garden plantings - alternative to invasive multiflora rose
• Larval host habitat for the Polyphemus moth and other Lepidoptera
• Butterfly, children's, and edible gardens - vitamin C-rich hips
• Dry to average soil restoration

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Moist, well-drained soils; tolerates occasionally dry conditions
• Drought Tolerance: High
• Flood Tolerance: Low - A dry-mesic species, distinct from its wetland-obligate relative Rosa palustris (swamp rose); not tolerant of standing water.
• Plant Type: Shrub
• Mature Height: 2-4 ft.
• Fall Color: Insignificant/None
• Bloom Color / Period: Pink; May-June
• Wetland Indicator Status: FACU (Facultative Upland)
• Native Range: Northeast/Mid-Atlantic (full list)
• Hydrology: Dry-Mesic
• Root Depth: Moderate (12-24 in.)
• Salinity Tolerance: Low
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Shade Tolerance: Intermediate
• Growth Habit: Spreading - suckering
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9
• Deer Resistance: No (Frequently Damaged)
• Pollinator Value: Larval host, supports bees, supports specialist/oligolectic bees, supports moths

Planting Guidance

• Confirmed resistant to rose rosette virus, a serious disease affecting many cultivated roses. Spreads via suckering rhizomes to form colonies - pair with competitive native prairie plants to keep spread manageable in smaller settings.