Rosa californica
“Wild California Rose”

photo: (right) Paula Kate

Romantic, deliciously scented & exceptionally low maintenance, our native West Coast shrub rose is a swell choice for difficult “back 40’s”, steep hillsides, or as a screen or barrier plant. Growing easily in dry, clay soil with only occasional Summer water, it’ll flower continuously (heaviest in sun) from Spring to Fall with an abundance of wild-hearted, single, 1-2”, soft pink blooms. To 3-6’ tall & 10’ wide, you’ll want to give it some room as it forms a (cat proof) spreading thicket & is a safe haven for nesting birds. Apple-like bright red hips make a tasty tea. Very resistant to disease & tolerant of many kinds of neglect, this shrub prefers some water, but can do pretty well without, although if you are in a no water situation planting it in part shade would work best. Semi-evergreen here in Zone 9.

Annie