Rosa arvensis - Field Rose

The Field Rose is perhaps less well known than the Dog Rose, but is also a British native. Scarce in northern Britain, it is more common in hedgerows in the south of England. Fast-growing, with arching stems, it differs from the Dog Rose in that it has pure white flowers, with a very conspicuous mass of golden stamens, and more rounded hips. Good wildlife value.

Site and soil

Most soil types and situations.

Height and spread

Below are the approximate stages of growth, assuming sited in suitable conditions for this species;

After 10 years: 2m x 2m
After 20 years: 2m x 2m

Leaf and bark

The leaves are pinnate with 5-7 toothed leaflets. The smooth bark is sometimes tinged purple and the stems are covered in hooked spines.

Flower, seed and fruit

The pure white flowers 4-5cms across are borne in July. They have a very conspicuous central boos of golden stamens. The flowers are followed by dark red, rounded to oval fleshy hips which enclose the seeds.

Uses

Mixed wildlife hedges, woodlands. Grown as a specimen shrub, the Field Rose assumes a mounded shape. The Ayrshire group of roses were bred from this species. The hips contain vitamin C.

Wildlife

Many insects, including bees, moths and butterflies are attracted to the Field Rose. The larvae of the Small Quaker Moth feed on its leaves. Birds and small mammals eat the hips.