Smooth Rose

Smooth Rose is a native rose of the upper Midwest and Great Plains, notable for its nearly thornless stems — 'blanda' means mild or smooth in Latin, referring to this unusual characteristic. It is one of the hardiest native roses, thriving on the cold, windswept prairies of the northern Great Plains where more heavily armed roses struggle. The medium-sized pink flowers are followed by bright red hips that persist through winter and provide critical nutrition for wildlife during the coldest months. It often grows in prairie ravines and along streams where it benefits from slightly more moisture.