Rosa glauca

Red-leaved rose is a wild species of rose from mountainous regions of Poland, Slovakia, as well as the Alps and Carpathians. It produces numerous, single, 5-petalled flowers in June and July that are followed by vibrant red, glossy hips. They are classified as edible, though with not much flesh so the best way of using them is drying the fruit for making tea. The layer of hairs around the seeds just beneath the flesh of the fruit has to be removed before eating since it could cause irritation to the mouth and digestive tract.

Deciduous leaves are composed of 5 dark green with a particular shade of red. This rose is a wild species growing into and arching shrub. Commonly the bottom branches are more prickly than the new growths. It grows vigorously, moderately to fast, and can be pruned in early spring.

Red-leaved rose will grow almost anywhere – it tolerates a wide range of soils, adverse conditions and city pollution. For best results, however, grow it in medium-fertile soil in full sun, and keep the soil moist after transplanting before the plant grows large enough to cast enough shade to its roots. Hardy to about -45°C.

Last update 13-02-2013