The Best Northwest Roses

Nootka Rose

• Rosa nutkana "Nootka Rose" is one of the best roses of the Northwest. It is a delightful native rose, according to Portland Nursery, and features big and bright orange hips . In addition, the "Nootka Rose" also showcases clusters of between one and three two-inch, pink flowers. These flowers have a scent that is sweet and almost resembles cinnamon. People who want this rose in their garden need to know that it is a fast grower that can reach three to six feet in size.

Bald-hip Rose

• Growing to a height of around five feet, Rosa gymnocarpa "the Bald-hip Rose" is a Northwest rose whose scientific name is Rosa gymnocarpa. The Bald-hip Rose is known for being one of the more adaptable roses of the Northwest. Throughout the winter, this rose generates small, red hips that remain through the season to feed birds. Featuring a growth rate that is moderate, the Bald-hip Rose typically makes its home in moist and dry forests. Full exposure to sunlight is not the preferred condition of this rose, according to Sound Native Plants.

Swamp Rose

• Known as a rose that grows in wet places, Rosa palustris "Swamp Rose" grows in seepages and by stream banks in total sun to light shade. This type of rose can grow to seven feet in height or even taller. This Northwest rose features graceful, arching foliage. Instead of having only single flowers, the Swamp Rose features several clusters. It is known to bloom from May until July and then for a second time in the fall.

Wood's Rose

• Rosa woodsii "Wood's Rose" can grow to about three feet in height, sometimes a little bit taller, according to Portland Nursery. "Wood's Rose" is not found west of the Cascades. This Northwest rose does well in sun to part shade conditions. It requires regular water and likes good drainage. However, it can survive in various other conditions. You also can find this rose growing in dense thickets.