Robusta Hybrid Rugosa/Shrub Rose: Kordes' Tough Pink

The Robusta hybrid rugosa/shrub rose, introduced in 1979 by Kordes (KORgosa), is a supremely tough, disease-free shrub with single, bright pink flowers and large orange-red hips. The ultimate low-maintenance landscape rose.

Classification and Heritage

Family: Rosaceae (ro-ZAY-see-ee)
Genus: Rosa (RO-zuh)
Cultivar: 'Robusta'
Additional names: KORgosa
Hybridized by: Kordes
Registered/Introduced: 1979

Growth Habit and Blooms

Dense, rounded shrub 4–5 feet. Rugose, disease-free foliage. Flowers 2.5–3 inches, single, bright pink, in clusters. Light fragrance. Repeat bloom. Large, ornamental hips.

Cultivation Tips

• Sunlight: Full sun.
• Soil: Adaptable, even poor/sandy.
• Watering: Drought tolerant.
• Pruning: Minimal.
• Hardiness: USDA zones 3–9.

Landscape Uses

Hedges, mass plantings, wildlife gardens, coastal sites, parking lots. Indestructible beauty.