Rosa californica 'First Dawn' - Wild California Rose

Description

A native of California's riparian communities, you'll see it growing along stream beds and in wet grasslands.  This selection has a lovely large pale flower which is akin to the pale light of dawn. Flowers appear from mid-spring through the summer. After blooming bright red rose hips appear, which are a major source of food for wildlife.  If you're not planting it in a naturally wet zone, you'll need to irrigate regularly.  Can grow up to 6' and spread quite vigorously if it has a lot of water.  Prefers full sun to at least half a day of direct light, and is adaptable to most soil types.  Deer will browse, but the thorny stems will prevent them from taking down the whole plant.  Once established, they'll barely put a dent in it.