The Brownell family introduced Nearly Wild in 1941, crossing Dr. W. Van Fleet with Leuchtstern to produce a floribunda that carries the open, unaffected charm of a wild rose in a tidy 2-4 foot package. The single pink blooms have a white center and showy yellow stamens, occur in clusters, and repeat steadily from spring through fall. Where flowers are left undeadheaded, attractive rose hips follow, extending the season well into autumn. The matte dark green foliage has reddish highlights on the stems, and the whole plant carries a modest fragrance that rewards close attention.

Nearly Wild is cold hardy down to zone 4, making it one of the more reliably northern-adaptable roses of its type. It suits a low hedge, a container, a cottage garden path, or the front of a mixed border. Full sun brings out the best bloom, though it tolerates some shade. Well-drained, amended garden soil keeps the roots happy. Rust, powdery mildew, and black spot can appear in humid conditions, so good air circulation is worth maintaining. Bees are regular visitors throughout the season.