Nootka rose (also called wild rose) grows prolifically in Alberta and BC. In British Columbia, it blooms from May to September.

Aside from being beautiful to look at, the Nootka Rose has many uses. The leaves are used for salads and teas by First Nations Peoples. This beautiful plant is also jam-packed with vitamins; it has more vitamin C than oranges! In addition, it is high in vitamins A, K and B. The inner bark was also used to smoke tobacco. The rose hips were also used and eaten by First Nations peoples. Apparently, the fruit tastes better after the first frost. 

These wonders of nature benefit humans and wildlife. Various animals feast on the fruit and flowers, and plants themselves help maintain embankments and soil.

Photo by Sébastien Vincon