Shrub
Rugosa rose
Rosa rugosa
A vigorously spreading, prickly shrub with wrinkled leaves, fragrant flowers and large hips. In Poland it is invasive and threatens habitats including dunes. Ornamental value does not justify planting where it could displace native vegetation.
- Size
- 1.5–2.5 m high · 1.5–2.5 m wide
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Winter
- Very hardy
- Seasonal form
- Deciduous
- Maintenance
- Moderate
Before planting
- In Poland this species is invasive and threatens coastal and inland dunes. Avoid new planting near sensitive habitats and check local restrictions.
- Root suckers can expand the occupied area beyond the width of a single shrub. It does not stay in one contained clump.
- Dense prickles call for care near paths and play areas, and during maintenance.
Why choose it
- Fragrant flowers and strongly wrinkled leaves are characteristic of the species.
- Large hips provide autumn interest. These features do not cancel the risk to native habitats.
Care
- For shrubs already planted, water during establishment and severe drought; established plants tolerate drier soil. Avoid waterlogging.
- Control suckers and seedlings. Do not discard hips or plant fragments in woodland, on dunes or on waste ground.
- Wear thick gloves and cover forearms when removing stems. Follow the land manager's guidance for control in natural habitats.
Good to know
- Frost and drought tolerance do not make this species suitable for every garden.
- Rugosa Group hybrids and cultivars are not automatically the same as the species Rosa rugosa, nor do they have identical legal status in every country.