Rosa blanda, commonly called Meadow Rose or Smooth Rose, is a nearly thornless native rose. The upper stems and the new growth are smooth. Any thorns that occur are bristly prickles at the base of the older stems. Broad-rounded to arching-mounded, it spreads to form patches, making it a good choice for naturalizing in larger areas. Showy pink flowers are 2"–3” across with yellow centers and pleasant fragrance. Berry-like rosehip fruits turn bright red in late summer, attracting birds and a variety of wildlife.
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 blanda and Rosa carolina are possible host plants for the Apple Sphinx moth, the Blinded Sphinx, Auotmeris Io moth, and the Cecropia moth.
Soil Type
Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil Moisture
Dry, Medium
Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial
Height
3' - 5'
Bloom Color
Pink
Bloom Time
June, July
Spacing
1' - 2'
Zones
3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Root Type
Rhizome
Benefits
Birds, Pollinators, Host Plant