by Shana Ternes
The Wild Prairie Rose is not only known for its beauty but also for its medical and food uses. The rise hips and roots are used to treat inflammation of the eye. The fruit can be eaten raw or made into jellies. The stems and leaves are used in teas.
The wild prairie rose is 1 to 2.5 feet tall. Its petals of five are 2 inches wide. The fruit is round apple like and is one-third to one-half inch in diameter. The seeds are hard, hairy, and irregular shaped. The color varies from light to dark pink and white. The flower blooms from early spring to late summer. Light exposure should be from sun to partial sun.
The wild prairie rose is found in North Dakota, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Colorado, Minnesota and Kansas. This rose is found in prairies, open-woodlands, roadsides, fields, and pastures.
Wildlife also take advantage of the wild prairie rose. Various birds, deer, antelope, elk, sheep, and pheasants feed on the rose hips. Skunks, rabbits, and gophers feed off of the fruits, stems, and foliage.
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Contact Information:
Shana Ternes
shana.ternes@ndsu.nodak.edu