Rosa acicularis aka Prickly Rose

Rosa acicularis is a deciduous shrub in the rose family. Its common names include prickly rose and Arctic rose. It grows across northern Europe, Asia, and North America. Its Asian range reaches northern and central Japan. In North America, it extends south into the western United States. Wild plants grow in thickets, forest edges, and rocky slopes.

This rose forms a branched bush and spreads through suckers. Garden plants reach about 5–6 feet [1.5–1.8 metres] tall. The RHS lists an upper height of 8 feet [2.5 metres]. Its listed spread reaches 5 feet [1.5 metres]. Many thin, straight prickles cover the bristly stems. The pinnate leaves have three to nine leaflets, most often five. Each leaflet has fine teeth along its edge. The upper surface looks dull green; the underside is paler.

Pink flowers open at the ends of short side branches. Most grow alone, though small groups can occur. Five petals surround a yellow centre. The scented blooms reach about 2.4 inches [6 centimetres] across. Chicago records flowering in May and June. The RHS places its single flowering flush in midsummer. Smooth red hips follow the flowers. Their shape ranges from pear-like to rounded. Long sepals remain attached to the fruit.

Grow this rose in sun or partial shade. It prefers fertile soil rich in organic matter. Keep the soil moist, but allow water to drain. It accepts clay, loam, sand, and chalk. It also grows across acidic, neutral, and alkaline soils. The RHS rates its cold hardiness as H7. Chicago lists USDA zones 2–7; Oregon State reports zone 1 hardiness. Use it for informal hedges, borders, or wildlife gardens. It attracts birds and can serve as a specimen shrub. Careful pruning helps maintain its shape. Mulch in late winter or early spring. Spring and early-summer feeding can support flowering.

Aphids, mites, scale insects, and sawflies may attack this rose. Deer and rabbits can also damage it. Disease risks include black spot, rust, mildew, and dieback. PFAF records edible fruit, flowers, seeds, shoots, and stems. It also records leaf tea and orange dye from hips. Hairs around the seeds can irritate the mouth and gut. The RHS advises against eating the fruit, including for pets. These sources therefore give conflicting food-safety guidance.