shrub

Dog Rose

Rosa canina

The Story

Plant Bio

Rosa canina, also known as the dog rose, is a vigorous climbing shrub with arching stems. It produces fragrant flowers that are typically pink and has small red hips.

Rosa canina is known for its resilience and ability to thrive in poor soils. It is also used in traditional medicine.

Uses & Benefits:

Rosa canina provides fragrant, attractive blooms and ornamental hips, ideal for wildlife gardens.

Its hips are rich in vitamin C and can be used to make herbal teas and jams.

Serves as a nectar source for bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

120 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Europe, Northwest Africa, Western Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic, but thorns are a physical hazard. Hairs on seeds inside hips can cause irritation.

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny spot with well-draining soil for planting.
Tuck roots into soil and water thoroughly after planting.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Prune in late winter to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced rose fertilizer.
Monitor regularly for pests and diseases, and treat as needed.

Pro Tip

Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases and promote healthy blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply once a week during dry periods 🌱
Prune annually to maintain shape and remove dead wood
Apply mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Feed with rose-specific fertilizer in spring and mid-summer

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not prune in late summer or fall as it can reduce winter hardiness
Refrain from using heavy soil that retains too much water
Do not ignore signs of pests or disease

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Harvest
Pest Check
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant shrub borderWildflower garden accentErosion control on slopes

Companion Plants

Lavender SalviaCatmint Alliums Geraniums

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Dog Rose questions

What zones can Dog Rose grow in?

Dog Rose is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Dog Rose deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Dog Rose, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Dog Rose bloom?

Dog Rose typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Dog Rose need full sun?

Dog Rose does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Dog Rose drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Dog Rose handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.