scotch rose

Rosa spinosissima

ShrubRosaceae

RHS AGM 2012

scotch rose
Drought tolerantSalt tolerantFragrant
USDA zones3 to 9
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size3 to 4 feet tall3 to 4 feet wide
Growth rate
Rapid
Habit
Mounding
Bloom season
Spring, summer, autumn
Bloom color
Cream/tan, white
Foliage color
Green
Soil types
Sand, loam, clay, chalk
Soil pH
Acid, alkaline, neutral

Garden uses

BorderCottage gardenGround coverHedgePollinator gardenPrivacy screen

Attracts

ButterfliesBeesBirds

Notes

Scotch rose (Rosa spinosissima) is a shrub for borders, cottage gardens, hedges, and pollinator gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full or part sun and average to moist soil of most types. It grows fast into a mounding shape about 35 to 47 inches tall and wide. Fragrant cream or white flowers attract butterflies, bees, and birds. It also tolerates drought and salt.

Pairs well with Charles Joly lilac, Cytherea peony, Blue Muffin arrowwood viburnum, and Cheerfulness daffodil.

Native range

Europe to South Western Siberia and NW. Iran and Algeria.