Nootka Rose
Rosa nutkana
Rosaceae · broadleaf deciduous shrub · native
Last updated
This profile synthesizes data from multiple published sources. Expert field review is in progress.
Nootka rose (Rosa nutkana) is a fast-growing deciduous shrub in the Rosaceae family native to western North America from Alaska to California, east to the Rocky Mountains. It reaches 10 ft tall and produces commonly solitary flowers 5-6 cm across with leaf-like calyx lobes. It occurs in woods and open places throughout its range.
Nootka rose is hardy in zones 7b-8b and prefers part shade with moist soil (pH 6.5-7.0) and high water needs. Twenty-seven diseases and 29 pests are documented. The fruit has a moderate edibility rating (3/5). Seeds contain hair irritants.
Quick Facts
Phenological Calendar
As of April 23, 2026, Puget Sound stations range from 1434.4 to 1592.7 GDD₃₂. Nootka Rose has reached 'leaf emergence' (1128 GDD₃₂) and is approaching 'flower buds visible', predicted around May 11.
Regional Season Tracker
GDD₃₂ accumulation across 7 Puget Sound stations · as of Apr 23, 2026| Station | GDD₃₂ | Current Stage | Next | To Go |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Issaquah / East King | 1,593 | 'Leaf emergence' | 'Flower buds visible' | 344 |
| Seattle / UW | 1,554 | 'Leaf emergence' | 'Flower buds visible' | 383 |
| Kent / Auburn | 1,537 | 'Leaf emergence' | 'Flower buds visible' | 400 |
| Olympia / Tumwater | 1,505 | 'Leaf emergence' | 'Flower buds visible' | 433 |
| Bellingham / Whatcom | 1,483 | 'Leaf emergence' | 'Flower buds visible' | 454 |
| Tacoma / Puyallup | 1,472 | 'Leaf emergence' | 'Flower buds visible' | 465 |
| Sequim / Rain Shadow | 1,434 | 'Leaf emergence' | 'Flower buds visible' | 503 |
| Stage | GDD32 | Typical Window |
|---|---|---|
| 'Bud break' BBCH '07' | 886 | '' |
| ● 'Leaf emergence' BBCH '11' NOW | 1128 | '' |
| ○ 'Flower buds visible' BBCH '51' NEXT | 1937 | '' est. May 11 (avg) |
| 'First bloom' BBCH '61' | 2089 | '' est. May 17 (avg) |
GDD = Growing Degree Days (base 32°F, Jan 1 start). Why base 32? GDD₃₂ thresholds from USA National Phenology Network citizen science observations (WA+OR). Season tracker for Kent / Auburn as of Apr 23, 2026. Predicted dates use 16-day weather forecast through May 9, 2026, then climate normals.