Carolina Rose
Rosa carolina
Last reviewed: June 2026
Carolina Rose (Rosa carolina) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–72" H × 24"–72" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 30 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Carolina rose is a native shrub that produces fragrant pink flowers from late spring through summer, followed by bright red hips in fall. This adaptable plant spreads by underground runners to form colonies and provides year-round interest with its thorny stems and colorful fruit.
In an HOA neighborhood
Carolina Rose takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Spreads aggressively by runners
- Thorny stems may be considered safety hazard
- Can look scraggly without regular pruning
Wildlife value
Host plant for spring azure, gray hairstreak.
The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles during the long blooming season. Birds feed on the nutritious rose hips in fall and winter, while the dense thorny growth provides nesting sites and shelter.
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.
Does Carolina Rose fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.