Family
Rosaceae
Botanical Name
Rosa spinosissima
Plant Common Name
Burnet Rose, Scotch Rose
General Description
The clear white, single blooms of the shrubby Scotch rose are nearly outmatched by its large, reddish black hips that shine late in the season. This old-fashioned species rose originates from Eurasia. European forms tend to be quite compact while Asian forms are commonly larger. It is most commonly found growing along sandy, rocky coastlines where winds are high and salt-spray common. It is a deciduous shrub rose with quite a few cultivated varieties to its name, including the brilliant pink 'Mary, Queen of Scots' and double pink 'Falkland.'
The bristly, thorny, arching branches of this rose produce rich green compound leaves that adopt vibrant shades of gold, red and orange in fall. Beautiful single roses of white with spidery yellow stamens are produced from late spring to summer. These delicate roses have a pleasing sweet fragrance. Large, globose hips that turn from dark red to near black persist into fall and early winter.
Scotch rose prefers full to partial sun, moderate temperatures and perfectly drained, slightly acid soil with average to good fertility. It is somewhat disease resistant. Good care and regular pruning will keep it looking its best. This rose blooms on old wood, so old, dead or dying canes should be cut out after flowering to maintain good appearance, airflow and overall health.
Though a bit informal, well-maintained Scotch roses provide a wealth of garden interest, and their appealing hips provide important forage to wildlife.
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Acidic, Neutral
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Soil Drainage
Well Drained
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Soil type
Loam, Sand
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Tolerances
Salt
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Growth Rate
Medium
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Water Requirements
Average Water
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Habit
Spreading
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Seasonal Interest
Summer, Fall, Winter
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Showy
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Flower Color
White
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Fruit Color
Dark Red, Black
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Foliage Color (Spring)
Green
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Foliage Color (Summer)
Green, Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Fall)
Red, Dark Green, Gold, Orange Red
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Bark Color
Dark Green, Sandy Brown, Gray
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Fragrant Flowers
Yes
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Flower Petal Number
Single
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Repeat Bloomer
Yes
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Showy Fruit
Yes
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Edible Fruit
Yes
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Showy Foliage
No
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Foliage Texture
Medium
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Evergreen
No
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Showy Bark
No
Special Characteristics
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Usage
Edible, Feature Plant, Foundation, Groundcover, Mixed Border, Rock Garden / Wall
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Sharp or Has Thorns
Yes
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Invasive
No
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Attracts
Birds, Butterflies
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Self-Sowing
Yes
