Father Hugo's Rose (Rosa hugonis): Species Yellow Charm

Father Hugo's Rose (Rosa hugonis), a Species/Wild Rose from 1899 by Wilson, is a graceful, fern-leaved shrub bearing masses of small, single, butter-yellow flowers in early spring. Also known as Golden Rose of China or Hugonis. A species rose of great elegance.

Classification and Heritage

Family: Rosaceae (ro-ZAY-see-ee)
Genus: Rosa (RO-zuh)
Cultivar: 'Father Hugo's Rose'
Additional names: Golden Rose of China, Hugonis
Hybridized by: Wilson
Registered/Introduced: 1899
Synonyms: Rosa hugonis, Rosa xanthina f. hugonis

Species roses are the wild ancestors of garden roses, valued for their natural charm and wildlife benefits.

Growth Habit and Blooms

Graceful, arching shrub 6–8 feet. Fern-like, fine-textured foliage. Flowers 1.5–2 inches, single, bright yellow, in profusion along canes. Blooms once in early spring. Red hips in fall.

Cultivation Tips

• Sunlight: Full sun.
• Soil: Well-drained, adaptable.
• Watering: Drought tolerant once established.
• Pruning: After bloom; remove oldest canes.
• Hardiness: USDA zones 5–9.

Landscape Uses

Naturalistic plantings, wildlife gardens, mixed shrub borders. Early spring color.