Deer
are a constant presence on many parts of Whidbey Island. Planting
roses is risky. You might as well put out a bag of Deer Chow. Except
for Rosa rugosa.Rosa rugosa
Deer
are a constant presence on many parts of Whidbey Island. Planting
roses is risky. You might as well put out a bag of Deer Chow. Except
for Rosa rugosa.
This extrememly vigorous Asian native shrub rose can form 6 foot high and wide spreading barriers. Deer may nibble on its new growth but can't seem to damage it. The plant provides good coverage for nesting birds as well.
The species (a bush planted from a
gallon container in 1986 is pictured at left) is dotted with single
dark pink (bright magenta) blooms from spring to fall. The blooms are
very fragrant, and do tend to attract bees.
The spent flowers fall off, not staying on the plant as they decay. Thus the plant tends to look fresh and neat every day.
The "ramanas rose" is very drought tolerant once established and is a wonderful choice for a seaside location, or any area where low maintenance is important.
Many rugosa rose hybrids are also
available, with differently colored and/or double flowers, and at
differing heights and even growth habits. An added bonus (at least in
our garden) is that as the bright red-orange hips (almost cherry
tomato-sized) ripen, the seeds fall and provide a feast for birds,
especially quail. The hips are also high in vitamin C, although a bit
pulpy and seedy.
Rosa rugosa Blanc double du Coubert
,
a double white shrub type.
Rosa rugosa Belle Poitevine, double pink.