Rosa sherardii aka Sherard's Downy Rose

Rosa sherardii is a wild rose in the rose family, Rosaceae. People call it Sherard’s downy rose or rhosyn Sherard. It comes from Europe, which includes Britain and Ireland. The RHS places its range in northern and central Europe. This shrub is deciduous: it sheds its leaves for winter. It grows in temperate climates and has a bushy shape.

Garden plants reach about 5–8 feet [1.5–2.5 metres] tall and wide. The RHS gives a usual height near 6.6 feet [2 metres]. Plants take two to five years to reach full size. The stems grow upright, with straight or slightly curved thorns. Green leaves have toothed edges, with soft hairs beneath. Glands grow on the lower sides of the leaves too. Small pink flowers open in early summer. Each bloom spans up to 0.13 feet [0.04 metres]. Red hips form next and are almost round. A few red glands on stalks dot the hips’ skin.

Grow this rose in full sun, with shelter from exposure. It suits sites that face south, west, or east. Give it rich soil that holds moisture but drains well. The RHS lists clay, chalk, loam, and sand as soils it suits. It grows in acid, neutral, and alkaline soils. An organic mulch may help in late winter or early spring. Its H6 rating shows it withstands cold across Britain and northern Europe. This rating covers winter lows of about −20 to −15°C.

This rose suits cottage gardens and less formal garden plans. The RHS also lists wildlife gardens, beds, and borders beside walls. Its blooms and red hips add interest in separate seasons. Leave spent blooms in place if you want hips. You can grow new plants from softwood or hardwood cuttings. You can also use chip budding in summer. Seed needs stratification and may take two seasons to sprout.

Several pests and diseases can harm this rose. Aphids and leafhoppers may attack it. So may spider mites and scale insects. Caterpillars and several rose sawflies can cause harm too. Deer and rabbits may harm plants. Black spot and rust pose disease risks. So do powdery mildew and dieback. Replant disease and honey fungus may cause problems too. Flower balling and rose blindness can also occur. The RHS treats the hips as ornaments, not food. This warning applies to both people and pets. Wear gloves and other safety gear when you handle the plant.