Rosa villosa aka Apple Rose

Rosa villosa, called apple rose or shaggy rose, belongs to the rose family. This deciduous shrub comes from Europe, from Scandinavia to Spain and the Caucasus. It grows in woods, hedges, and scrub. Its name refers to soft hairs on the plant. Garden plants reach 4–8 feet [1.22–2.44 metres] tall. They spread 5–6 feet [1.52–1.83 metres] wide. Many stems form a dense shrub with arching branches.

Older branches have smooth, dark brown bark and bear prickles. Young branches look red, with a faint bloom and soft hairs. The glossy leaves have a blue-green hue. They may turn yellow before falling in autumn. The foliage can smell like ripe apples. Single, pale pink flowers measure about one to two inches across. They open from June into early autumn. Large, bristly hips follow the flowers and turn orange-red. These fruits add colour in autumn, when gardeners can harvest them.

Apple rose grows in sand, loam, and heavy clay. It prefers moist soil that drains well and dislikes waterlogged ground. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soils, though near-neutral soil suits it well. The shrub grows in part shade, but sun brings more flowers. North Carolina State lists it for USDA zones 4–9. Its growth rate and upkeep needs are both moderate. Underground runners often produce new shoots beyond the main plant.

Use this rose as a hedge, barrier, or garden accent. It suits lawns and edges of paths. Deer often damage it, and potato aphids can trouble it. It grows poorly beside boxwood. Gardeners can raise plants from seed, cuttings, layers, or divided shoots. Seeds may take two years to sprout. Cuttings can need a year to establish. Divide suckers while the plant is dormant, then move them into place.

The hips have tart flesh and contain vitamin C. Eat the flesh raw or cooked, or use it in jam and jelly. Each hip holds many seeds beneath a thin layer of flesh. Hairs around those seeds can irritate the mouth and gut. Remove these hairs before using the fruit or seeds as food. Ground seeds can be added to flour or other foods. They supply vitamin E. The leaves also serve as a tea substitute.