Dog rose Rosa canina (S)
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as dog rose has a climbing or trailing habit with a prolific display of stems covered in small, sharp thorns. The leaves are usually composed of five to seven leaflets, which are oval-shaped with a pointed tip, and have a slightly toothed edge. The green foliage provides a contrasting backdrop to the flowers. The dog rose blossoms from late spring to midsummer, bearing flowers that are typically pale pink to white in color. Each flower is made up of five petals with a subtle fragrance and a delicate, rounded appearance. These flowers are followed by bright red fruit, known as hips, which remain on the plant into the winter months and provide a pop of color as well as a food source for wildlife. The plant is versatile and hardy, often seen in hedgerows, woodland edges, and even in coastal areas, contributing to its widespread presence. The dog rose's natural grace and simple beauty make it a favorite for wild gardens and informal settings, and it is also valued for its hips, which can be used to make teas, jams, and other culinary preparations.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae.
Synonyms
Dog Rose, Wild Rose, Witch's Briar, Hip Rose, Dogberry, Haggebutt.
Common names
Rosa canina L.
ToxicityTo humans
Dog rose, commonly known as Rosa canina, is not known to be toxic to humans. In fact, parts of the plant, such as the fruits (rose hips), have been used for culinary and medicinal purposes. The rose hips are rich in vitamin C and are used in teas, jams, and supplements. However, like any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities can occur, and the thorns of the dog rose could cause physical injury or infection if they puncture the skin. Care should always be taken when handling plants with thorns. There is no significant evidence of toxicity upon ingesting the leaves, petals, or hips of the dog rose that would lead to poisoning in humans.
To pets
The dog rose, known as Rosa canina, is not considered toxic to pets either. It is generally safe for pets, and there is no known toxicity from pets ingesting the rose hips, leaves, or petal of this plant. However, owners should still exercise caution as the thorns can cause injury to pets, and excessive consumption of any non-food item can potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset or other digestive issues. It is always best to monitor your pets around plants and discourage them from chewing on any plant material to prevent the possibility of choking or an unexpected allergic reaction.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
3-15 feet (1-4.6 meters)
Spread
3-10 feet (1-3 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Edible fruits: Rosa canina, commonly known as Dog Rose, produces rose hips that are high in vitamin C and can be made into jams, jellies, syrups, and teas.
- Landscape ornamental: The Dog Rose has attractive pink or white flowers, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping projects.
- Wildlife habitat: The plant provides shelter and food for birds, bees, and other wildlife, benefiting the local ecosystem.
- Soil erosion control: Dog Rose can be used in hedgerows or as a natural barrier to help prevent soil erosion due to its dense root system.
Medical Properties- High in vitamin C: Rosa canina, commonly known as rosehip, is noted for its high vitamin C content, which may support immune system function.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Compounds in rosehips may reduce inflammation and could be beneficial in conditions like osteoarthritis.
- Antioxidant properties: The plant contains antioxidants that may help protect cells from damage by free radicals.
- Skin health: Rosehip oil is often used in skincare for its potential to hydrate the skin, reduce scars, and promote skin regeneration.
- Gastrointestinal support: Rosehip tea has been traditionally used to aid digestive issues and to soothe the stomach.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Rosa canina hips are used to make a jam due to their high vitamin C content and unique flavor.
- The petals of the plant are edible and can be used in salads to add a splash of color and a mild, sweet taste.
- The fruit, commonly known as rose hips, can be dried and used to prepare an herbal tea.
- Rose hip seed oil, extracted from the fruits of Rosa canina, is used in skin care products for its moisturizing properties.
- The fine hairs found inside the rose hips are sometimes used in itching powder as a mild irritant.
- Rose water made from the petals of dog rose has culinary uses, such as flavoring for pastries and sweets.
- The wood of Rosa canina is hard and dense, making it useful in crafting small items like tool handles and walking sticks.
- Rosa canina can be planted as a natural barrier due to its dense growth and thorny branches.
- Rose hips from Rosa canina can be used as natural beads for making jewelry after being dried and hollowed out.
- The plant is used in landscape gardening to attract wildlife, like bees and birds, which find the flowers and fruits a valuable resource.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dog Rose is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dog Rose is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love and Admiration: As a member of the rose family, Rosa canina, commonly known as the dog rose, shares the universal symbolism of roses that stands for love and admiration. Its delicate blossoms convey deep emotions and can also signify a heart unclaimed by love.
- Healing and Protection: The dog rose has been used in traditional medicine for its healing properties, especially its high vitamin C content in the hips. Its symbolism extends to include healing from emotional or physical harm and a sign of protection.
- Beauty and Pleasure: The blooming of the dog rose with its attractive flowers represents beauty and the pleasures of life. It serves as a reminder to appreciate the beauty in our surroundings.
- Happiness and Joy: The sight of the dog rose in the wild can instill a sense of joy and happiness, as roses are often associated with positive emotions and happiness in life.
- New Beginnings and Hope: The dog rose's tendency to grow in the wild and claim its space symbolizes new beginnings and hope, suggesting resilience and the ability to thrive in various conditions.
WaterThe Dog Rose needs regular watering, particularly during its first growing season to establish a deep root system. After establishment, watering frequency can be reduced. Offer about 1 to 2 gallons of water per week during the growing season, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the winter, reduce watering, but do not let the soil dry out completely.
LightThe Dog Rose thrives best in full sun conditions, which means at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Planting it in a spot that receives morning sun and some partial shade in the afternoon can help protect the blooms from intense, midday heat.
TemperatureThe Dog Rose is quite hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures. It can survive minimum winter temperatures down to about -15°F, while the ideal growing temperature range is between 60°F and 70°F. It can tolerate summer highs up to about 86°F.
PruningPruning Dog Roses is necessary to maintain plant health, encourage blooming, and shape the plant. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts, removing dead or diseased wood and thinning out crowded areas. Pruning after the first significant bloom can also encourage a second wave of flowers.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor the Dog Rose, a well-draining loamy soil mix is ideal, combining two parts garden soil, one part compost, and one part coarse sand or perlite. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingDog Roses are typically outdoor plants and do not require frequent repotting. They may need repotting every few years if grown in containers, to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.
Humidity & MistingDog Roses are adaptable to various humidity conditions and do not require specific humidity levels, but they thrive best in average outdoor environments where moisture is naturally regulated.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright sunlight, limit size, water sparingly.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil, space for roots.
Hardiness zone
3-10 USDA.
Life cycleRosa canina, commonly known as the dog rose, begins its life cycle as a dormant seed which requires a period of cold stratification to germinate. Upon sprouting, the seedling grows into a small shoot and develops a root system; this juvenile stage is characterized by rapid vegetative growth. As the plant matures, it develops thorny stems and pinnately compound leaves, eventually producing distinctive pink or white flowers that are pollinated by insects during the flowering stage. After successful pollination, the flowers develop into bright red rose hips (fruits), containing seeds that are dispersed by various animals attracted to the fruit. Once dispersed, these seeds may lie dormant until conditions are favorable for germination, thus completing the cycle. Dog roses are perennial plants that can regrow each year from the same root system, entering a period of dormancy in winter before resuming growth in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Dog Rose, Rosa canina, is via seed sowing, which is generally done in the fall. Fresh seeds are collected and sown directly into a well-prepared seedbed or into containers filled with a mix of compost and sand. The seeds require a period of cold stratification to break dormancy, which can be achieved naturally through the winter months. It may take at least two years for seed-grown plants to flower. For faster results, semi-ripe cuttings can be taken in summer, ideally measuring 5 to 6 inches (about 12.7 to 15.24 centimeters) in length, and rooted in a well-draining propagation medium under high humidity and indirect light. Cuttings typically root in six to ten weeks, after which they can be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions.
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