Baldhip rose (Rosa gymnocarpa) is a thicket-forming shrub that grows up to 5 feet high. The plant is widespread and common throughout Oregon.
Baldhip rose leaves are compound and deciduous with 5-9 1.5-inch leaflets. Thorns are thin and straight, ranging from numerous to sparse. Flowers are pink and fragrant, blooming in late spring. In fall it bears small, attractive fruits called rose hips which are 1/2″ in diameter and orange to scarlet in color. This rose tolerates full sun to partial shade and is drought tolerant. Rosa gymnocarpa hybridizes with other roses.
This shrub provides food and shelter for a variety of birds and mammals and attracts pollinators and other beneficial insects. Pollinators hollow out the stems and shelter inside them over the winter, and use the leaves for nesting material. Flowers are an important source of pollen. Anise swallowtail butterflies visit roses for their nectar, and the plant is a source of food for the young of mourning cloaks and gray hairstreak butterflies.
In favorable conditions, baldhip rose will try to spread by sending out underground runners which will sprout into new plants. Annual pruning may be needed to keep it in check.
