Scotch Rose

rosa spinosissima

Also known as: ["Scotch Briar Rose","Scotch Thorn"]

Family: Rosaceae Genus: Rosa Category: Flowers

Overview

A deciduous shrub rose known for its profusion of small, white to pale pink flowers and abundant thorns.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Rosales
Family: Rosaceae
Genus: Rosa
Botanical Name: Rosa spinosissima

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden bed in open, sunny area
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–7"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter like compost.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter/early spring; light pruning after flowering if needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on plant age and condition.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) is ideal. Adjust for partial shade in extreme heat to prevent scorching.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight. Protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates. Ensure proper ventilation if grown indoors.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper drainage.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in peak summer; avoid direct sun on leaves during hottest hours.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; mulch to retain moisture.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cold but may struggle in prolonged heat.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize after pruning; use organic options like compost tea; stop fertilizing in fall.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or hardwood cuttings in late winter/early spring.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Late winter or early spring before active growth begins.

Environment

Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and partial shade.

Medium

Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.

Hormone

Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.

Timeline

Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, misting spray bottle, heating mat.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches; cut back old stems to encourage new growth.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead/diseased wood. Focus on rejuvenation every few years.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased wood; thin crowded areas; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth starts.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage; water lightly after repotting.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.

Checklist

Choose new pot; prepare fresh soil; inspect roots; prune if necessary; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth. Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation for even moisture distribution.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf scorch, wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf yellowing or dieback in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or dieback, especially in young plants.

Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants to sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower abortion, and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; dilute liquid fertilizers; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Rosa spinosissima may indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as iron or nitrogen, or may be caused by pests like spider mites or diseases like rose rust. Environmental stress, such as overwatering or poor drainage, can also contribute to chlorosis.

Wilting in Rosa spinosissima can be caused by water stress, either due to under or overwatering. Root rot diseases, such as those caused by Phytophthora species, can also lead to wilting by impairing water uptake.

Leaf spots on Rosa spinosissima are commonly caused by fungal pathogens such as Diplocarpon rosae (black spot) or Cercospora species. These spots can lead to defoliation, reduced photosynthesis, and weakened plant vigor.

Rotting in Rosa spinosissima is often associated with root or crown rot, typically caused by fungal pathogens like Fusarium or Rhizoctonia. Overly moist soil conditions exacerbate these issues, leading to decay of the root system and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Similar to dogs, the thorns pose a physical hazard, and ingestion of seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation due to cyanogenic glycosides.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting lethargy oral irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
thorns seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if ingested

Prevent cats from accessing the plant to avoid injury from thorns or ingestion of seeds; seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

The thorns can cause physical injury, and ingestion of seeds may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides.

⚠️ Symptoms:
drooling vomiting abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
thorns seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if ingested

Keep plants out of reach to prevent ingestion of thorns or seeds; monitor pets for any signs of discomfort.
Humans
Non-toxic

The seeds of Rosa spinosissima contain small amounts of cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when ingested in large quantities. However, typical consumption of the fruit (hips) is not considered toxic.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting headache
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten in large quantities

Avoid consuming large quantities of seeds; the fruit (hips) is generally safe for consumption in moderation.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Rosa spinosissima suitable for beginners?

A: It is moderately challenging to care for, so it is better suited for those with some gardening experience.

Q: Does this rose attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.

Q: How toxic is Rosa spinosissima to pets?

A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Quick Reference
Family: Rosaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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