Nootka Rose
Rosa nutkana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Nootka Rose (Rosa nutkana) 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"–120" H × 36"–96" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 6 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Rosa nutkana is a native wild rose that produces fragrant pink flowers in late spring and early summer, followed by bright red rose hips in fall. This thorny shrub can vary considerably in size and has a somewhat irregular, spreading growth habit typical of wild roses.
In an HOA neighborhood
Nootka 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.
- Very thorny stems pose safety concerns
- Irregular growth habit looks too wild for formal landscapes
- Can sucker and spread aggressively
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles during blooming season, while the rose hips provide food for birds through fall and winter. The dense, thorny branches also offer nesting sites and protection for small wildlife.
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 Nootka Rose fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.