Family: Rosaceae Genus: Rosa
Species: Rosa canina L.
Common Name(s): dog rose, common-briar, canker rose, dog briar
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Rosa canina, commonly known as dog rose, is a species of wild rose that is native to Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa. This hardy plant is well-known for its beautiful pink flowers, which bloom in the late spring and early summer, and for its bright red rose hips (fruit).
Etymology
Why the name “dog rose”? There are several theories about the etymology of the name. For some, the term “dog” signifies “worthless” because the plant was considered a lesser relative of the highly prized cultivated roses that were all the rage. Another explanation is that the root of the dog rose was believed to cure bites from wild dogs, and it was used for this purpose during the 17th and 18th centuries.96
Fables, Folklore, and Mythology
It was once believed that a late-flowering branch of dog rose foreshadowed an outbreak of plague, and also that any plans made within earshot of a dog rose were bound to go astray. During the month of June, when the dog rose is usually in flower, it was believed to be dangerous for the flowers to come too close to one’s eyes as it could cause blindness.97
Traditional Medicine and Modern Science
In Austrian traditional medicine, dog rose hips were used to treat kidney complaints and infections, and recently an extract of rose hip has been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of painful osteoarthritis.98 Dog rose is rich in vitamin C (up to 50 times more than oranges) and thus makes an excellent immune booster. It’s also used to treat a wide range of ailments, including colds, flu, and digestive issues. Oil extracted from the rose hips is used in skin care products to help moisturize and rejuvenate the skin.99
Gastronomy
The rose hips of the dog rose are often used to make tea, jams, and syrups. They are also used to make a tangy sauce to pair with meat dishes.100
Ecology
Dog rose is a pioneer species, able to grow rapidly and reproduce prolifically, paving the way for other plant species to flourish. Its hips serve as a favorite food source for many bird species and small mammals such as foxes and hedgehogs, which aid in seed dispersal. The plant provides habitat for many species of insects as well.