The memorial rose (Rosa Wichuraiana), one of the parents of the modern hybrid rambler roses, is the only truly procumbent rose species.
This native of Japan, Korea, and eastern China was first introduced into North America about 65 years ago.
And even though it has been grown here for over half a century, it is not used by home gardeners as frequently as it might be, particularly as a low barrier plant and for erosion control on hillsides.
The plant’s long flat runners creep along the ground, and when they have covered the space allotted to the plants, additional runners pile up in graceful impenetrable arches.
Because the long runners root readily when they come in contact with moist soil, the growth of memorial rose makes a splendid ground cover.
Because the shoots may elongate 4′ feet or more a year, a few plants will quickly and economically fill a large area.
Related: Sweetbriar Rose: A Rose Of Ancient Lineage And World Traveler
Memorial Rose’s Asset
The profuse white, single flowers are another asset to the memorial rose, especially as they appear from mid-July to August when few woody plants bloom.
The individual flowers are pure white and, while only about an inch or two in diameter, are born in pyramidal clusters which may be 4” inches or higher.
Reddish Fruits Follow The Flowers
They are not too conspicuous but do aid in making the plant colorful in fall.
As far north as Boston, this plant is frequently classed as a semi-evergreen; farther south, the foliage may be retained practically the entire winter.
In the Arnold Arboretum, we have found that it is unnecessary to spray this species, for here, it is not troubled with any serious disease or insect pests.
44659 by Donald Wyman