White Rugosa Rose
White Rugosa Rose (Rosa rugosa 'Alba')
White Rugosa Rose (Rosa rugosa 'Alba'), also known as Rosa rugosa alba, is a hardy, fragrant shrub rose celebrated for its pure white blooms, excellent disease resistance, and ability to thrive in challenging environments. Native to coastal regions of East Asia, this rugged variety excels in poor soils, salt spray, and cold climates�making it an ideal low-maintenance solution for naturalistic landscapes and erosion control.
Distinctive Features
This dense, upright shrub typically grows 4 to 6 feet tall and wide, with suckering growth that forms broad, informal colonies. Its bright white, single blooms emit a strong, classic rose fragrance and appear from late spring through fall. Wrinkled, dark green foliage is deeply textured and turns golden in autumn. Showy orange-red hips develop in late summer, adding ornamental and ecological value into winter.
Growing Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Type: Sandy, loamy, or gravelly soils with good drainage
- Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
- Water Needs: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 2 to 9
Ideal Uses
- Focal point in coastal, native, or informal landscapes
- Mass plantings for erosion control on slopes or dunes
- Salt-tolerant hedge near roads or driveways
- Wildlife gardens attracting birds and pollinators
- Mixed shrub borders needing year-round interest
Low Maintenance Care
- Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to control spread
- Deadheading optional; hips add seasonal appeal
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Fertilize sparingly; tolerates lean soils
- Highly resistant to pests and rose diseases
Why Choose White Rugosa Rose
- Bright white, fragrant blooms throughout the season
- Extremely cold-hardy and salt-tolerant
- Attractive hips and fall color for multi-season beauty
- Excellent for naturalizing and erosion control
- A bold, low-care focal point in tough environments
White Rugosa Rose combines classic beauty with rugged resilience�making it a standout focal point for coastal gardens, naturalistic borders, and sites where other roses struggle to thrive.

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