Rosa laevigata, known as the Cherokee Rose, is a distinct climbing rose. This species is recognized for its vigorous growth, forming dense thickets of long, rambling canes that can create a striking display. The plant is admired for its large, white flowers that bloom in the spring, matched by a resilient nature reflecting its wild origins.
Physical Characteristics
The most identifiable feature of Rosa laevigata is its large, fragrant flowers. These blossoms measure 3 to 4 inches across and are composed of five white petals. At the center of each flower is a prominent cluster of golden-yellow stamens. The flowers are borne singly or in small clusters and bloom for several weeks in the late spring.
This plant is an evergreen or semi-evergreen climbing shrub with glossy, bright green foliage. The leaves are trifoliate, meaning they are composed of three leaflets. The canes are armed with sharp, hooked thorns that allow the plant to climb vigorously over other vegetation or structures, sometimes reaching lengths of over 30 feet.
Following the blooming period, the Cherokee Rose produces a distinctive fruit, known as a rose hip. These hips are pear-shaped, bristly, and measure up to two inches long. They mature to a bright orange-red in the late summer and fall, persisting on the plant through the winter. This bristly fruit is a key identifier for the species.
Origin and Cultural Significance
The Cherokee Rose is native to southern China, Taiwan, and Vietnam, where it grows in open fields and along streams. It was introduced to the southeastern United States around the late 18th century, where it naturalized. Though widely cultivated by the Cherokee people, leading to its common name, the plant is not native to North America and holds no official place in Cherokee culture.
Despite its foreign origins, the plant became embedded in Southern folklore through a legend tied to the Trail of Tears. The story tells of the suffering of the Cherokee people during their forced removal from their lands. The white petals are said to represent the tears of mothers, while the gold center symbolizes the gold taken from their lands. The flower bloomed along the route, offering a symbol of hope and resilience.
This narrative cemented its cultural importance in the region. In 1916, the Georgia General Assembly designated the Cherokee Rose as the official state flower. This decision was made under the mistaken belief that the rose was native to the state, yet its status as a symbol of Georgia’s heritage endures.
Cultivation and Care
The Cherokee Rose is best suited to climates with hot summers and mild winters, thriving in USDA Zones 7-9. The plant requires a location in full sun to produce the best flowers. It is adaptable to various soil types but performs best in well-drained loams with consistent moisture.
Due to its sprawling growth, this rose requires substantial support, such as a sturdy fence, trellis, or arbor. Without support, it will grow into a large, mounding shrub. Management involves pruning in the late winter to control its size, remove dead canes, and encourage new growth.
Gardeners should be aware of the plant’s invasive potential. In some regions, its aggressive nature allows it to escape cultivation and overwhelm native vegetation. Before planting Rosa laevigata, check with local authorities to see if it is considered an invasive species in your area.
Traditional Uses
The Cherokee Rose has a history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine, where the fruit is known as Jin Ying Zi. The first records of its medicinal application date back more than a thousand years. The dried, ripe fruits are used for their astringent properties to support the kidney and large intestine, helping to control issues like diarrhea and frequent urination.
The pear-shaped hips are a rich source of Vitamin C, making them a historical source for teas, syrups, and preserves. The seeds within the fruit are also a source of Vitamin E. However, they are surrounded by a layer of irritating hairs that must be carefully removed before consumption.