Family: Rosaceae
Author: Cham. & Schltdl.
Bibliography: Linnaea 2: 35 (1827)
Year: 1827
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Rosa
Vegetable: False
Observations: Oregon to Mexico (Baja California Norte)
Description
The California rose, known scientifically as Rosa californica, graces a variety of landscapes from Oregon to Baja California Norte in Mexico. As a vibrant representative of the Rosaceae family, this species carries the grace and resilience typical of the roses native to this region.
First described in 1827 by Cham. & Schltdl. in the publication Linnaea, the California rose has long been appreciated for its natural beauty and adaptability. This species thrives across a diverse range of habitats, from coastal areas to inland valleys, demonstrating remarkable ecological versatility.
The California rose is characterized by its attractive, fragrant flowers that bloom predominantly in shades of pink. These blossoms, often densely clustered, create a striking contrast against its lush green foliage. The plant’s stems are adorned with sharp thorns, a classic feature of rose shrubs, which serve as a natural defense mechanism against herbivores.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Rosa californica plays a significant role in local ecosystems. It provides essential habitat and food for various wildlife species. Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators frequent its flowers, while birds and small mammals often seek refuge in the dense thickets the plant forms.
Cultivating the California rose in gardens or restoration projects can be particularly rewarding. It is valued for its hardiness, drought tolerance, and minimal maintenance requirements. This species is ideally suited for use in natural landscaping and habitat restoration efforts, promoting biodiversity and ecological health.
The California rose is more than just a plant; it is a vital component of the natural heritage of the American West. Its history, beauty, and ecological importance make it a cherished plant for botanists, gardeners, and nature enthusiasts alike.
Common Names
Eng: california rose, california wildrose
Deu: kalifornische rose
Swe: kalifornisk ros
En: California rose, California wildrose
De: Kalifornische Rose
Sv: Kalifornisk ros
Synonyms
- Rosa californica var. chamissoniana (Crép.)
- Rosa breweri (Greene)
- Rosa californica florepleno (Bean)
- Rosa californica var. glandulosa (Crép.)
- Rosa californica var. pubescens (Crép.)
- Rosa californica var. glabra (Crép.)
- Rosa aldersonii (Greene)
- Rosa californica var. petersiana (Crép.)
- Rosa californica f. plena (Rehder)
- Rosa californica var. nana (Bean)
- Rosa californica f. nana ((Bean) Rehder)
Distribution
- California (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Oregon (native)
Additional Images
Other
Taken Jun 1, 2018 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 1, 2018 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 1, 2018 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 1, 2018 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Leaf
Taken Jun 28, 2022 by Kenji Liu (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 29, 2022 by maristela diaz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 20, 2019 by James James (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 2, 2022 by maxseesaplant (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 14, 2022 by paulsamago (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Jun 1, 2018 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 1, 2018 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 1, 2018 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3006252)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30033304-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Rosa californica Cham. & Schltdl.)
Specifications
Growth form>: Thicket Forming
Growth habit>: Subshrub
Growth rate>: Rapid
Growth
Ph maximum: 8.0
Ph minimum: 7.0