PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; highly tolerant of coastal salt spray and windy conditions
Watering
Water deeply when top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; drought tolerant once established
Temperature
Hardy to -20°C; tolerates cool coastal temperatures and moderate summer heat
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small pinnate leaves with 5–7 oval gray-green leaflets, slightly hairy on undersides
- Flower: Single 5-petaled white blooms with bright yellow stamens, lightly fragrant
- Fruit: Small round purplish-black hips ripening in autumn
- Stem: Dense, tangled stems covered in short, curved prickles
Care Guide
Watering
Water regularly during prolonged dry spells; avoid waterlogging
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once in early spring. Over-fertilization can reduce flowering and increase soft growth prone to damage
Eggshell powder top-dressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the base of the plant in early spring; work lightly into the top 1 cm of soilPruning
- Prune immediately after flowering to remove dead wood and maintain a compact, mound shape
- Thin overcrowded branches to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Trim back any frost-damaged stems in early spring before new growth emerges
- Remove spent blooms to encourage tidier growth (optional, as hips provide autumn interest)
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; hips are edible when ripe
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes resilience and coastal wild beauty in European folklore
Usage: Ornamental garden shrub; ripe hips can be used to make jams, teas, or syrups
