Family

Rosaceae

Description

Beach rose is a salt-tolerant, cold-hardy shrub native to coastal northeastern Asia, but it is widely naturalized along the Atlantic coast of North America. It forms dense thickets with fragrant, magenta or white flowers and large, tomato-like hips rich in vitamin C. Its thick, wrinkled (rugose) leaves and vigorous suckering roots allow it to thrive in sandy, nutrient-poor soils and wind-swept coastal dunes. It’s a favorite for erosion control and informal hedging in harsh maritime environments.

Due to its robustness and ability to spread by both rhizomes and seeds, Rosa rugosa is considered invasive in some regions, where it displaces native dune flora. It thrives in USDA Zones 2–7 and is drought- and salt-spray tolerant once established. The hips attract birds and other wildlife, while the flowers support bees and other pollinators throughout the summer.

Bloom Time

June to August