Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Compound pinnate (typically with 5-7 leaflets), deciduous
Shape
Elliptical to oblong-lanceolate leaflets
Margin
Serrate (finely toothed) along the upper portion of the leaflet
Arrangement
Alternate on the stem
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent midrib and distinct lateral veins branching outward
Key Features
Pinnately compound leaves usually with 5-7 leaflets, finely toothed margins, paired prickles at the nodes, and solitary or few-flowered pink blossoms
Description
Rosa carolina is a low-growing, thicket-forming deciduous shrub usually reaching 1 to 3 feet in tallness. It features prickly stems, fragrant pink flowers with five petals appearing in late spring to mid-summer, followed by bright red, fleshy hips in autumn.
Habitat
Typically found in dry to moist open woods, prairies, clearings, and along roadsides or forest borders in full sun to partial shade
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, ranging from Nova Scotia south to Florida, and west to Texas and Nebraska