How to Grow Lapland Rose
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Lapland Rose
Rosa acicularis subsp. acicularis
shrubLapland rose is a hardy, deciduous shrub native to northern regions, producing fragrant pink to deep rose flowers in late spring or early summer. It is one of the hardiest wild roses, capable of thriving in extreme cold climates where other roses struggle. The plant typically grows 3-6 feet tall and produces bright red hips in fall that persist into winter.
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Example Lapland Rose timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Lapland Rose
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Lapland Rose
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 1-5; exceptionally cold-hardy, thriving in arctic and subarctic regions
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Get my Lapland Rose timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
Year 1Young shrub focuses on root development and basal growth; minimal flowering in year 1
Water regularly during first growing season; mulch around base; prune to establish shape if desired
Vegetative Growth
Year 2, spring-early summerPlant develops dense, thorny branches with healthy foliage; stems harden and thicken
Remove dead or damaged wood in spring; thin crowded branches to improve air circulation; minimal fertilizer needed
Flowering
4-6 weeks, typically May-June in northern regionsPink to rose-colored, fragrant single flowers (5 petals) appear in clusters along stems in late spring to early summer
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms if desired, though allowing some flowers to remain enables hip formation
Hip Development
June-October and beyondAfter flowering, bright red to orange-red hips form and mature through summer; persist on branches into winter
Do not deadhead all flowers if you want hips; hips provide wildlife food and ornamental value; minimal intervention needed
Dormancy
November-March (varies by latitude)Foliage turns yellow-gold before dropping in fall; plant enters cold dormancy adapted to harsh winters
No watering or feeding needed; prune only to remove dead wood; plant is naturally cold-hardy and requires no winter protection
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove and destroy infected plants; control vector (Eriophyes mites) with sulfur sprays or neem oil; no cure exists once infected
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Prune infested stems; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil in early morning; encourage natural predators
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Spray with strong water stream; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil; use sulfur dust in cool weather
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Improve air circulation through pruning; spray with sulfur or potassium bicarbonate fungicide; avoid overhead watering
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Increase humidity; spray with water; apply neem oil or sulfur-based miticide in warm periods
Uses
Hip Tea and Infusions
CulinaryThe bright red hips are rich in vitamin C and commonly brewed into a refreshing, slightly tart tea. Traditionally used in Nordic and Russian cuisines as a warming beverage during long winters. [source]
Immune Support and Anti-inflammatory
MedicinalRose hips contain vitamins C, A, and E, plus antioxidants and lycopene. Historically used in traditional medicine of northern regions to support immune function and reduce inflammation. [source]
Jam, Jelly, and Syrups
HouseholdThe pulp and seeds from hips are processed into jams, jellies, syrups, and marmalades. Popular throughout Scandinavia and Russia as a preserve and natural sweetener. [source]
Winter Garden Interest
OrnamentalThe persistent bright red hips provide striking visual interest through fall and early winter on the bare branches. Fragrant pink flowers offer spring-early summer color in arctic and subarctic gardens. [source]
Wildlife Food and Habitat
WildlifeHips provide crucial winter food for birds, foxes, and other wildlife in harsh northern climates. The dense, thorny branches offer protective shelter and nesting sites. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Hips are ready to harvest after the first hard frost (September-October in most northern regions), which breaks down the cell walls and enhances flavor and nutrition. Cut hip clusters with pruners, leaving some on the plant for wildlife. Wear gloves as the fine hairs inside hips can irritate skin. For cut flowers, harvest in early morning when stems are turgid; condition in cool water immediately.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Lapland rose is the national flower of Iceland and symbolizes strength and resilience in harsh landscapes.
- 🌱 It is one of only a few rose species native to the Arctic Circle and can survive temperatures dropping to -50°F (-45°C) without winter protection.
- 🌱 During World War II, Swedish rose hip syrup was produced as a vitamin C substitute for children when citrus imports were unavailable, a practice that continues in Scandinavian countries today.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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