Noteworthy CharacteristicsRugosa roses have thorny branches and attractive, distinctively wrinkled leaves. (The species takes its name from the Latin word rugosus, meaning "full of wrinkles"). They grow well in mixed borders, hedges, and as specimens and are tolerant of harsh conditions, including salt spray, wind, and poor soil. 

CareGrow in fertile, moist, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Provide good air circulation, and remove fallen leaves to help prevent disease. In late winter or early spring, prune lightly or back by up to a third, reducing side shoots by a half to a third. To renovate, prune one in four or five shoots from the base.

PropagationTake softwood cuttings when bloom initiates in spring to summer; take hardwood cuttings in fall.

ProblemsAphids, leafhoppers, spider mites, scale, caterpillars, sawfly larvae, cane borers, Japanese beetles, rose stem girders, rose midges, rose slugs, rose chafers, leaf-cutting bees, black spot, rust, powdery mildew, crown gall, canker, dieback, downy mildew, viruses.