How to Grow Burnet Rose
Burnet Rose
Rosa spinosissima
shrubRosa spinosissima, commonly known as Burnet Rose or Scotch Rose, is a hardy, deciduous to semi-evergreen shrub native to northern Europe and Asia. It produces fragrant, single or semi-double flowers in white, pink, or yellow, followed by dark red to black hips. This ancient rose is valued for its exceptional cold hardiness, disease resistance, and ability to thrive in poor soils.
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Example Burnet Rose timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Burnet 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 Burnet Rose
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-8; exceptionally hardy to zone 2
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Establishment
3-6 monthsYoung canes develop from planting; limited foliage in first season; minimal flowering
Keep consistently moist but not waterlogged. Avoid heavy pruning first year. Support canes if needed. Mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Vegetative Growth
Spring to early summerShrub develops dense, thorny stems with small, feathery foliage. Plant grows 3-6 feet tall depending on variety
Prune after flowering to shape and maintain size. Remove dead or diseased wood. Apply balanced fertilizer in spring. Light mulch application in fall.
Flowering
4-8 weeks (late spring to early summer)Abundant single or semi-double flowers bloom along stems in white, pink, or yellow; flowers are lightly fragrant
Deadhead spent flowers if repeat blooming desired, though this removes hips. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer which promotes foliage over flowers. Enjoy fragrance.
Hip Formation & Ripening
Late summer through winterDark red to nearly black hips develop on stems after flowers fade; hips are ornamental and persist into winter
Skip deadheading to allow hip development. Hips are valuable for wildlife and can be harvested for culinary use. No special care needed.
Dormancy
2-4 months (November-February in Northern regions)Plant enters dormancy in late fall/winter; foliage may remain on semi-evergreen cultivars or drop completely
Minimal watering required in dormant period. Prune out dead wood in late winter (February-March in Northern Hemisphere). No fertilizer needed.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water stream, neem oil, insecticidal soap, or introduce ladybugs. Avoid excessive nitrogen which promotes soft growth.
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Hand-pick in early morning, use Japanese beetle traps, apply neem oil, or encourage natural predators. Avoid pyrethrins which harm beneficial insects.
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Spray with water to dislodge, use miticides, or apply neem oil. Increase humidity around plant. Rosa spinosissima is generally resistant.
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No cure; remove and destroy affected plants. Virus is transmitted by eriophyid mites. Rosa spinosissima shows good natural resistance.
Uses
Rosehip Tea & Preserves
CulinaryRosa spinosissima hips are rich in vitamin C and make a tart, floral tea. They can be used to make jams, syrups, and jellies; seeds and hairs must be removed before consumption. [source]
Immune Support & Anti-inflammatory
MedicinalRosehips have been used traditionally to boost immunity, reduce inflammation, and support joint health. Modern research confirms significant vitamin C and antioxidant content. [source]
Garden Structure & Wildlife Habitat
OrnamentalThe dense, thorny shrub provides excellent structure in gardens, shelter for birds, and nectar for pollinators. Hips provide food for birds and wildlife through winter. [source]
Cut Flowers & Fragrance
HouseholdDelicate flowers are excellent for cutting and arrangements, with a light, pleasant fragrance. Petals can be used in potpourri or dried for crafts. [source]
Pressed Flowers & Petal Crafts
CraftPetals dry beautifully for pressed flower art, bookmarks, and decorative crafts. Hips can be used in dried arrangements and wreaths. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest hips in late fall (October-November in Northern Hemisphere) after first frost, when they are fully colored and slightly soft. Cut with pruners to avoid thorns. Use fresh or dry for tea, syrup, or jam. Flowers can be cut in early morning when fully open for arrangements or pressed flowers.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Rosa spinosissima is one of the most cold-hardy roses and survives in Scandinavia and Russia where few other roses persist; it's native to windswept coastlines and moorlands.
- 🌱 This ancient rose species was a parent of many heritage roses and is still grown much as it was 200+ years ago; Scottish gardeners called it 'Scotch Rose' and it became culturally significant.
- 🌱 The hips turn nearly black when fully ripe and are among the largest and most flavorful of wild rose species, containing 20-40 times more vitamin C than oranges.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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