Rosa species (Hardy Shrub Roses)
The only group of roses discussed in this guide are those classified as hardy shrub roses. A hardy shrub rose is very cold tolerant, requires no annual pruning and only needs feeding in spring. These include some of the oldest roses known to the west as well as some of the newest varieties now sold commercially. Plant in well-drained soil with added compost, full sun, irrigate twice weekly.- R. foetida ‘Bicolor’ (Austrian Copper Rose) — 5 ft. tall by 5 ft. wide; orange-yellow flowers on same plant from May-June; loves heat; good in dry zones
- R. Harisonii (Harison’s Yellow) — 6-8 ft. tall by 6-8 ft. wide; yellow flowers from May-June; blooms in fall if sheared after spring bloom; good against fence or wall; came west with pioneers
- R. rugosa (Sea Tomato) — 3-8 ft. tall and wide; flowers single or double, white, dark red or yellow; good as hedge, vigorous
- R. spinosissima (Scotch Rose) — 3-4 ft. tall, width varies; white or pink flowers from May-June; suckering roots spread vigorously; good as bank cover
- R. ‘Meidiland’ — 12 in. to 10 ft. tall, width varies; white, pink, coral, red or ivory flowers; use as groundcover, hedge, background, bank cover
- R. woodsii (Woods Rose) — 6 ft. tall by 6 ft. wide; pink flowers, red rosehips; low water zones; native to the west
- Category: Shrubs
- Water Use: Moderate
- Sun Exposure: Full Sun
- Height x Spread: 12 in. - 10 ft. x 3-8 ft.
- Native: No
- Color: Red, yellow, white, pink
- Bees: Yes
- Birds: Yes
- Butterflies: No
- Cut flower: No
- Utility Tree: No
- Extra Maintenance: No
- Soil: N/A
- Fall Color: No
- Bloom Time: Spring, summer