It won't surprise you to learn that like most natives, this is a vigorous, undemanding grower. In fact, it's hardy to Zone 3, - 35 degrees. And it's almost thornless...just some small prickles toward the base of older canes. It's also not fussy about soil, growing well in clay and sandy soils as well as garden loam. It even tolerates some shade and drought. A note of caution...it spreads by suckers, forming colonies, so give it room.