CALIFORNIA WILD ROSE

Species Name: Rosa californica
Family: Rosaceae (rose family)
Plant Type: Shrub



Description:  Thicket building shrub, height 3-8 feet, stems with compressed, curved thorns.



Leaf:  Compound with 5-7 leaflets. Leaflets ovate to oblong, toothed, length to 1½ inch.

 
Flower:  May-August, singular or in clusters, pinkish, ¾ inch petals.
Fruit/Seed:  Round, reddish, fleshy rose hip, ¾ inch diameter. 

Typical Location:  Moist areas, streamsides; elevations below 5,300 feet.
Revegetation Approach:  Container.  Hybridizes with non-native cultivated roses, care must be taken in collection.

Notes:  Important understory species, and good soil stabilizer. Species extremely variable.  Rose hip high in vitamin C and important forage for wildlife.