rosa californica plena

[Anonymous]

Does anyone have any experience with the rosa californica 'plena' hybrid?I did not realize when I purchased it at the native plant sale that it was a 'plena'. Will this rose produce hips like the rosa californica? Since I haven't been able to find much info on the 'plena' I'm assuming it will have nearly identical requirements as the rosa californica??Will it also thrive in light shade and low water? From what I have found on the web very little it does not appear as though it suckers and spreads like the rosa californica?Any info. on this will be appreciated since I will be planting it this weekend.</p>

[Anonymous]

Jeff,It seems the guy you should try to contact if you get no further info is Bart O'Brien from Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden in Claremont. His expertise is exceptional and his knowledge of these very cultivars extensive. He is writting a book on native cultivars.

Anyway, as far as I can recall I purchased one myself a few years ago and belive it was a lighter colored double. Does that sound familiar? Yes it is slower to grow than R. cal but is also not as robust in overall vigor. Mine died after a year and a half, never really got anywhereheavey clay, abit too wet consistantly, etc.Anyway I remember seeing the picture and bought it because of its supposed manners. I would imagine you could plant it without any problem and enjoy it.

Good luck-Dan </p>

[Anonymous]

I have grown Rosa californica 'Plena'for several years in my garden in Auburn, Ca. The plant is an excellent performer: highly drought tolerant in nearly full sun, fast growing but not agressive, and a great producer of hips and double pink flowers. I have also experienced the plant having very decent red fall color. Overall, this has been an excellent garden plant.</p>