Little Wood Rose

You find Baldhip Rose in shaded woods throughout the Pacific Northwest as a fine-textured 4-6 foot shrub bearing small pink flowers in pairs or clusters. The slender prickled stems, diminutive leaflets, and smooth (naked) hips distinguish this delicate rose from its coarser relatives. Despite its fragile appearance, it thrives in dry shaded forests.

Plant Baldhip Rose in partial shade with moderate moisture and well-drained soil. Once-blooming types like this are pruned after flowering. The small hips are edible but contain irritating hairs beneath the flesh, so handle carefully. As with other native roses, numerous pests and diseases are documented; select healthy sites with good drainage and air movement to minimize problems.