California Rose
Rosa californica
Last reviewed: July 2026
Rosa californica is a native California and Oregon shrub that produces fragrant pink flowers from May through July. This drought-tolerant rose attracts bees, beetles, and butterflies while requiring minimal water once established.
California Rose (Rosa californica) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag California Rose as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–72" H × 24"–72" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, OR
Pollinators
bees, beetles, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
A versatile native shrub producing fragrant pink flowers in late spring through summer. It spreads gradually to form thickets with attractive foliage and colorful rose hips in fall. This drought-tolerant plant works well in borders or as an informal hedge.
Growing California Rose
Grow California Rose in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 24 to 72 inches tall and spread 24 to 72 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
California Rose is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone.
- Can look untidy without occasional pruning
- Thorny branches may be considered hazardous near walkways
- May spread beyond intended area without barriers
Wildlife value
Host plant for western tiger swallowtail, pale swallowtail.
This rose attracts numerous pollinators including native bees, beetles, and butterflies. Birds are drawn to the nutritious rose hips in fall and winter.
Common questions
- When does Rosa californica bloom?
- Rosa californica typically blooms from May through July, producing clusters of fragrant pink flowers that attract various pollinators.
- What pollinators visit California Rose?
- Rosa californica attracts bees, beetles, and butterflies. The flowers provide nectar and pollen, while the hips that follow offer food for birds and small mammals.
- Where is Rosa californica native?
- Rosa californica is native to California and Oregon, where it grows in chaparral, woodland edges, and streamside areas from sea level to moderate elevations.
- How much water does California Rose need?
- Rosa californica is drought-tolerant once established and thrives with low to moderate water. It naturally occurs in areas with Mediterranean climate patterns of wet winters and dry summers.
- Is California Rose toxic to dogs?
- California Rose is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is California Rose toxic to cats?
- California Rose is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is California Rose toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag California Rose as toxic to livestock.
- Is California Rose HOA-friendly?
- California Rose is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow California Rose? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz