Apothecary's rose, French rose, Rose de Provence
Rosa gallica var. officinalis
Family: Rosaceae
What it is like
A prickly shrub up to 1.5 m high. It is a dense bush which spreads by suckers. Leaves are oval and leathery. The flowers are crimson and have a double ring of petals. The fruit are dull red hips.
There are about 150 Rosa species and many cultivated varieties.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It suits cool climates. It can grow in warm and arid areas. It needs full sunlight. It needs a well drained soil. It suits hardiness zones 5-10.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Canada, Europe, France, North America, Tasmania
How it is used for food
Rosehips are used in jellies, syrups and liqueurs. Petals are used to flavour vinegar and can be crystallised and used as a sweet.
Edible parts
Fruit, herb, petals, flowers
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seed. They can also be grown from suckers. Each sucker should have its own roots. Hardwood cuttings 20 cm long can be used. It does not need annual pruning. Plants can be cut back to ground level in winter or when dormant to rejuvenate bushes.
Rosehips are harvested in autumn when fully ripe. Flowers can be picked and used immediately.