Wild Prairie Rose
Rose Rosa pratincola

Iowa State Flower History:

In 1897, the Iowa Legislature adopted the Wild Rose as the state flower of Iowa . Chosen for the honor it bestowed as one of the decorations used on the silver service, presented to the battleship USS Iowa that same year. The Wild Prairie Rose (Rosa Pratincola) is often cited as the official flower; however, no particular species of the flower was designated by the legislature. Blooming from June to late summer, the Wild Roses of Iowa are found throughout the state. Set off by many yellow stamens in the center, the flower is found in many shades of pink.