The dog rose (Rosa corymbifera) - which is particularly widespread in Central Europe - should not be confused with the very similar dog rose (Rosa canina) - is a very easy-care and vigorous wild rose that is ideal for planting hedges in the garden. In contrast to many other wild rose species, Rosa corymbifera hardly produces any thorns.
What characterizes the dog rose Rosa corymbifera?
The dog rose (Rosa corymbifera) is an easy-care wild rose with almost thornless growth. It reaches a height of 2-3 meters and prefers sunny to partially shaded locations with nutrient-rich, clay and calcareous soil. Its delicate pink flowers in June and feathery leaves are typical.
The dog rose in a nutshell at a glance
- Botanical name: Rosa corymbifera
- Genus: Roses (Pink)
- Family: Rosaceae
- Popular names: dog rose, rose hip, wild rose, bush rose, sleepthorn
- Origin and distribution: temperate climatic zones of the northern hemisphere, esp. a. Central Europe
- Growth height: two to three meters
- Typical characteristics: Leaves are hairy on the underside, bush has almost no spines
- Location: sunny to partially shaded and warm
- Soil: nutrient-rich, clay and limestone
- Flowers: white to delicate pink petals
- Flowering time: June
- Fruits: Rose hips (colored orange-red when ripe)
- Leaves: alternately arranged, pinnate leaves
- Use: among other things. as a base for noble roses
- Toxicity: no
- Winter hardiness: yes
Hedge roses can be found almost everywhere
As wild roses that are perfectly adapted to their environment, all hedge roses are not only quite undemanding in terms of location and care conditions, but are also extremely frost hardy. Rosa corymbifera can tolerate temperatures down to minus 29 °C and is therefore perfect for planting even in very cold regions. Although dog roses shed their leaves in autumn, in summer they form a dense, impenetrable hedge with fresh, green foliage and numerous large, fragrant flowers. In nature, the dog rose is found primarily in bushes and on the edges of dry forests.
Hard rose or dog rose?
The term “dog rose” primarily refers to the two closely related and therefore externally very similar, but nevertheless different types of wild roses Rosa corymbifera (the actual dog rose) and Rosa canina (also called dog rose). The well-known and very he althy rose hips, the bright red fruits of wild roses, are collected from the dog rose, which is also native. The fruits of the dog rose, on the other hand, are not used in cooking or natural medicine.
The dog rose in the garden
The dog rose - both Rosa corymbifera and Rosa canina - are perfect for wild, romantic and easy-care hedges that are opaque and impenetrable. The two species can be planted individually or in combination with other wild roses. Particularly interesting planting partners are:
- Rosa multiflora (cluster rose),
- Rosa rubiginosa (Scottish fence rose),
- Rosa rugosa (apple or potato rose),
- Rosa carolina (sand or meadow rose)
Tip
The dog roses mentioned should be planted approximately 80 centimeters apart. For bushy and strong growth, regular pruning makes sense, for which the hedge trimmer can also be used.
