Woods’s rose (Rosa woodsii, Ros. Monogr.: 21 (1820))

Family: Rosaceae

Author: Lindl.

Bibliography: Ros. Monogr.: 21 (1820)

Year: 1820

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Rosa

Vegetable: False

Observations: Alaska to Newfoundland and N. Mexico

Description

Woods’s rose, scientifically known as Rosa woodsii, is a captivating species belonging to the Rosaceae family. Described by Lindley in his monograph published in 1820, the plant has stood the test of time as a beloved and resilient member of the rose family.

Woods’s rose graces the diverse landscapes from the frigid expanses of Alaska and Newfoundland to the more temperate climates of northern Mexico. This hardy shrub thrives across a broad range of North American habitats, showcasing its adaptability and strong survival traits.

This rose species typically presents a striking array of delicate, pink blossoms that delight botanists and nature enthusiasts alike. The flowers, known for their aesthetic appeal and subtle fragrance, contribute significantly to the plant’s beauty and ecological role. Not only do these blossoms attract pollinators, they also provide essential resources, sustaining the intricate web of life in their respective ecosystems.

In addition to their visual appeal, the leaves and stems of Woods’s rose carry characteristics typical of the Rosaceae family, including the presence of thorny stems which offer a natural defense against herbivores. This allows the plant to flourish even in challenging environments.

Woods’s rose is not just visually appealing but also plays a key role in the environments it inhabits. It helps prevent soil erosion, provides habitat and food for wildlife, and operates as a pioneer species in disturbed areas, assisting in ecological restoration.

The expansive range of Woods’s rose from the frosty northern reaches to the warmer climes of the southern territories highlights its versatility and the significant ecological niche it occupies. This resilience makes Rosa woodsii a vital subject of study and admiration within the botanic and ecological communities.

In summary, Woods’s rose (Rosa woodsii) is an emblem of the natural beauty and ecological significance that spans from Alaska to Newfoundland and down to northern Mexico. Its enchanting blossoms, robust nature, and critical environmental roles underscore why it is a cherished member of the Rosaceae family.

Common Names

Eng: woods’ rose, woods’s rose
Fra: rosier de woods, rose de woods
En: Woods’s rose, Woods’ rose, Wood’s rose, WOODS ROSE
Cr: Okiniyi
Cs: Růže Woodsova
Fr: Rosier de Woods, Rose de Woods
Fa: رز آلاسکا
Ru: Шиповник Вудса

Synonyms

Distribution

• Alaska (native)
• Albania (native)
• Arizona (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Manitoba (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• Nevada (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• Newfoundland (native)
• North Dakota (native)
• Northwest Territorie (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Saskatchewan (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Texas (native)
• Utah (native)
• Washington (native)
• Wisconsin (native)
• Wyoming (native)
• Yukon (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Fruit

Taken Oct 9, 2022 by Asmer21 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 23, 2021 by Bénard Tremblay Milo (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 28, 2022 by Tiffany Jacobs (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 14, 2021 by William William (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 4, 2022 by Stephanie Choy (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Aug 5, 2020 by Grace Drake (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 9, 2020 by DGG DGG 2018 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 2, 2019 by Alex Engbers (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 9, 2021 by Julien Bory (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 12, 2019 by Lindsay Bayne (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken May 29, 2013 by EOL − ggisomar (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 30, 2015 by EOL − Bryna Cline (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 3, 2014 by EOL − Charlie Hohn (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 23, 2021 by Bénard Tremblay Milo (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 9, 2019 by Bryan French (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jul 4, 2021 by Richard Wideman (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 11, 2021 by Abby Longworth (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 5, 2020 by Danny Kozicki (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 6, 2021 by Barry Clermont (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 5, 2020 by m d (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Jun 30, 2021 by Vicki Brown (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Aug 21, 2020 by Amber Finnbogason (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 24, 2022 by Kevin Fernandes (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 19, 2020 by Michelle Morris (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 28, 2022 by lavonne kelly (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 9, 2019 by Bryan French (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3004072)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30014943-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Rosa woodsii Lindl.)

Specifications

Growth form: Rhizomatous

Growth habit: Subshrub

Growth rate: Rapid

Growth

Ph maximum: 8.0

Ph minimum: 5.0