Climbing Prairie Rose, Rosa setigera, is a spreading shrub (to 4 feet tall) or climber (to 15 feet tall with support) which typically occurs in moist soils along streams, in prairie thickets, along roads, fencerows, and in clearings. Features deep pink, single (5-petaled) flowers (to 2.5 inches across) which bloom in late spring to early summer. Mild fragrance. No repeat bloom. Shiny, dark green foliage turns variable but attractive shades of deep red, purple in late autumn. Later in the summer, bright red rose hips appear. The root system consists of a taproot that branches occasionally, and is usually quite deep. This vine reproduces by seed or suckering of the stems.
Habitats include moist to mesic prairies, savannas, thickets, woodland borders and clearings, acid gravel seeps, fence rows, abandoned pastures, and waste areas. Sometimes this plant is called the Prairie Rose, although it is more common near woodland areas. It has a moderate capacity to recover from occasional fire and other disturbances.
Best grown in average, medium to wet, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Best flowering and disease resistance generally occur in full sun, however. Water deeply and regularly (mornings are best). Avoid overhead watering. Good air circulation promotes vigorous and healthy growth and helps control foliar diseases. Summer mulch helps retain moisture and keep roots cool. Crowns appreciate protection in cold winter areas.
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 (dorm