Rosa (Shrub Rose Group)
Shrub roses are a broad group of hardy landscape roses that include modern hybrids and species selections. They stand out for dense, bushy growth and generous bloom suited to mass planting and hedges. They thrive in full sun with well drained soil across much of North America. Many are hardy in USDA Zones 4 to 9, with some selections tolerating colder sites. Fragrance and flower form vary from single to fully double. These roses are often chosen for lower maintenance compared with exhibition types.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Shrub Rose (modern shrub)
- Height × spread: 3–7 ft × 3–6 ft (0.9–2.1 m × 0.9–1.8 m)
- Bloom window: late spring to frost; many repeat in waves
- Color & flower form: wide palette; single to very double; hips on many types
- Fragrance: 2 noticeable (varies by cultivar)
- USDA hardiness: zones 4 to 9 common; check cultivar specifics
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown; class encompasses many breeders and regions
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- Lower maintenance and pest pressure than many exhibition roses
- Full, branching habit for hedges and massing
- Often better cold tolerance and winter stamina
- Many types set colorful hips for late season interest
Strengths
- Durable landscape performance
- Repeat or extended bloom on many cultivars
- Broad adaptability to soils and climates
- Wildlife value where hips persist
Care in one minute
- Site: full sun for best bloom; tolerate light shade in hot zones
- Soil and pH: well drained loam at pH near 6.5 to 7.0
- Water: deep weekly watering during establishment; adjust with rainfall
- Feeding: modest fertilizer needs; feed in spring where growth is light
- Pruning: thin oldest canes over time; shape after main flush if needed
- Overwintering: mulch crowns; choose hardy cultivars in cold regions
Watch‑outs
- Vigorous growth needs space and periodic renewal pruning
- Some species forms sucker beyond planting area
- Thorns can be dense on many selections
Best uses (tags)
hedges, massing, low‑maintenance landscapes, wildlife value, mixed borders
Provenance note
The Shrub Rose Group spans a mix of species and modern breeding lines developed through the 20th century. Land‑scape selections gained traction as gardeners sought durable, lower‑care roses.
References
- University of Missouri Extension — Roses: Selecting and Planting (care differences among classes).
- NC State Extension Plant Toolbox — Rosa (size and habit overview).
- Oregon State University Extension — Landscaping with roses (site, soil pH).
- ASPCA — Rose (Rosa spp.) non‑toxic to pets.
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
We are a small independent group of flower lovers who research and review each guide using trusted horticultural and educational sources. Learn more about us