Smooth Rose

(Rosa blanda)

Smooth Rose (Rosa blanda)

Reuven Martin

Public Domain

Image By: Reuven Martin

Recorded By:

Estimated Native Range

Summary

Rosa blanda, commonly known as Smooth Rose, is a deciduous subshrub native to open woodlands, forest edges, and prairies across Central and Eastern USA and Canada. It typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) and spreads 2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters). The Smooth Rose is characterized by its nearly thornless stems and smooth, reddish-brown bark. Its leaves are pinnately compound with 5 to 9 leaflets. The flowers, which bloom in early summer, are perfect, meaning they contain both male (stamens) and female (carpels) reproductive structures. They are borne singly or in corymbs from lateral buds and are notable for their variable coloration, ranging from white to pink, often with streaks of red. The petals surround prominent yellow anthers and a yellow/orange stigma, with white filaments. After blooming, the stamens and style become erect once the petals fall.

Smooth Rose is valued for its hardiness and adaptability to various soil conditions, including dry, nutrient-poor habitats like sandy soils. It is often used in naturalistic plantings, as a border shrub, or for erosion control due to its spreading habit. This rose requires full sun for optimal flowering but can tolerate partial shade. It is relatively low-maintenance, requiring medium amounts of water and accommodating a range of soil drainage conditions. While not commonly afflicted by serious disease or pest problems, it can be susceptible to typical rose issues such as powdery mildew and black spot. Gardeners should be aware that, like many roses, it can spread via suckers, potentially becoming invasive if not managed.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

Plant Type: Shrub
Height: 3-5 feet
Width: 3-5 feet
Growth Rate: Rapid
Flower Color: Pink
Flowering Season: Summer
Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
Water: Medium
Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to open woodlands, forest edges, and prairies

Other Names

Common Names: Meadow Rose , Smooth Wild Rose , Prarie Rose , Labrador-Rose , Rosier Agréable , Rosier Inerme , Rosier Sauvage , Églantier , Labradorros

Scientific Names: Rosa blanda , Rosa americana , Rosa rousseauiorum , Rosa williamsii , Rosa blanda var. blanda , Rosa subblanda , Rosa blanda var. hermannii , Rosa dasistema , Rosa blanda var. glandulosa , Rosa blanda var. carpohispida

GBIF Accepted Name: Rosa blanda Aiton