Carolina Rose, Rosa Carolina, is native shrub which occurs in both dryish and wet soils. Typically found in glades, open woods, prairies, along roads and railroads, and in wet soils along streams and swamps and low areas. Grows from 1-3 feet tall and often spreads by suckers to form colonies or thickets in the wild. Features single (5-petaled), pink flowers (to 2.5 inches across) which bloom in May. No repeat bloom. Smooth, dark green foliage. Red hips in late summer. The root system consists of a deep central taproot that branches occasionally. From shallow rhizomes, this plant can spread vegetatively, forming small colonies.
Habitats include mesic to dry black soil prairies, sand prairies, openings in woodlands, oak savannas, limestone glades, sand dunes near lakes, fence rows, abandoned fields, areas along railroads where prairie remnants remain, and waste areas where birds are likely to occur. This plant has considerable resistance to drought, and recovers readily from occasional wildfires.
Best grown in average, medium to wet, well-drained soil in full sun. Best flowering and disease resistance occur in full sun. Water deeply and regularly (mornings are best). Good air circulation promotes vigorous and healthy growth and helps control foliar diseases. Summer mulch helps retain moisture and keep roots cool. Remove and destroy diseased leaves from plants (as practicable), and clean up and destroy dead leaves from the ground around the plants both during the growing season and as part of a thorough clean-up during winter (dormant season). Crowns appreciate protection in cold wint