Robusta

Bred by Kordes and introduced in 1979, this Rugosa hybrid is aptly named for its incredible vigor and "iron-clad" constitution. The blooms are large, single (five petals), and a piercing, vibrant scarlet-red with a small cluster of yellow stamens at the center. While it doesn't possess the typical wrinkled foliage of many Rugosas, it inherits their legendary resilience and extreme thorniness—the canes are densely armored with large, sharp prickles. It is a repeat bloomer, though the primary show is in early summer. The plant grows as a massive, upright, and stiff shrub, often reaching 6 to 8 feet in height, making it an impenetrable choice for a security hedge or a specimen in a low-maintenance landscape. It is exceptionally healthy but carries very little fragrance.