Burnet rose (Rosa spinosissima) is one of the thorniest wild rose species. “Spinosissima,” in fact, means “the most thorny” in Latin – this delicate white rose is great to look at, but not to pick! Burnet roses are native to Europe and northern Africa, though they have been introduced to New England and much of the Midwest in the U.S.
I. Appearance and CharacteristicsÂ
Rosa pimpinellifolia, (also known as Rosa spinosissima), the burnet rose, is a species of rose native to western, central and southern Europe (north to Iceland and Norway) and northwest Africa.
It is generally restricted to sand dunes or limestone pavements and typically has a coastal distribution when not on limestone.
It is a rather low erect deciduous plant usually from 20–140 cm high but sometimes up to 2 metres. It spreads by basal shoots and can cover large areas. The stems have very numerous stiff bristles and many straight prickles. The young stems and prickles and the mature leaves tend to be very red with young growth a bright scarlet and older growth a deep maroon.
The flowers are cream-white although rarely also pale pink. They are 2–4 cm diameter with five petals, which produce a distinctive globular dark purple to black hips.
Similar plants native further east in Asia, sometimes treated as Rosa pimpinellifolia var. subalpina, are now regarded as a separate species Rosa oxyacantha (Flora of China); it differs in having pink flowers and red hips.
Numerous cultivars are grown, of which ‘Stanwell Perpetual’ has gained the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit. It has very pale pink double flowers, fading to white.
In emblematic terms it is particularly associated with Scotland, where it is traditionally referenced in poetry and song, and is a symbolic native plant second only to the thistle.
II. How to Grow and Care
Burnet rose is known for its resilience and low-maintenance requirements. Key care aspects include ensuring well-drained soil, and providing full sun exposure to promote healthy growth and flowering. Special care points encompass minimal regular pruning to maintain shape and encourage new growth, and attention to avoiding waterlogged conditions which can lead to root issues.
Sunlight
Burnet rose favors full sun and also can tolerate a half shade environment. In partial shade, it usually only grows leaves and does not bloom. Even if it has flower buds, the flower is neither gorgeous nor fragrant. As a result, it is recommended that gardeners ensure sunlight at least 6 hours per day during the growing season (but not necessarily in winter). In summer, it should be appropriately shaded to prevent overexposure to sunlight.
Temperature
Burnet rose is widely distributed from cold temperate zones to tropical areas. It likes cool, ventilated environments and is not tolerant of high temperatures. The optimum temperature range is 15 to 26 ℃. Some species can tolerate temperatures as low as -26 ℃ and high temperatures of up to 35 ℃. When the temperature is below 4 ℃ in winter and above 30 ℃ in summer, the plant becomes semi-dormant and has poor growth. The flowers during this period will have a few small, white petals with a dim and lusterless color and are not good-looking at all.
Burnet rose favors moist conditions but is not resistant to water-logging. It can tolerate moderate drought. Provide more water from budding to flowering, but reduce watering after blooming time. After blooming, wait to water again until the soil is basically dry to avoid any accumulation. Ensure good ventilation and drain excess water during the rainy season to prevent damage to its roots.
Watering
Adapted to the sparse rainfall of its native habitat, burnet rose has evolved a moderate drought tolerance. This resilience is reflected in its watering needs; it thrives with watering once every 1-2 weeks, maintaining a balance between moisture and well-drained conditions. Typically grown outdoors due to its robust nature, burnet rose can withstand varying climate zones, making it versatile in landscape use. Its ability to adapt to different levels of rain exposure highlights an evolutionary advantage for survival.
Soil
Burnet rose can adapt to a variety of soil types and grows best in acidic soil which is fertile, loose, and water-drained. When planting in the garden, you should choose a place on higher terrain with sufficient sunlight, good air ventilation, and slightly acidic soil. Planting in high terrain helps avoid water accumulation in soil. Before planting, deeply loosen the soil and use organic fertilizer as base fertilizer. If planting as a potted plant, use humus-rich and slightly acidic sandy soil.
Fertilizing
Fertilize burnet rose seasonally with balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support robust growth, especially in spring. Quarterly applications at half-strength support flowering and health, avoiding over-fertilization to prevent growth stunts. Adjust feeding with plant age and soil quality, increasing frequency during active growth phases. Usage of organic options like aged compost enriches soil structure. Always water burnet rose after fertilizing to distribute nutrients and prevent root burn. With proper fertilization, burnet rose will thrive, showcasing vigorous growth and abundant blooms.
Pruning
Burnet rose has a strong sprouting ability and grows luxuriantly. Without proper, timely pruning, it will attract diseases and pests in hot, humid, insufficiently lit, or poorly ventilated conditions. After the first bloom, the plant should be slightly pruned. Promptly cut off faded flowers and thin, overlapping branches, leaving only young and strong branches. During winter dormancy, careful pruning is recommended.
For vines, keep main branches at 2 to 3 m long and cut off the rest. For bush plants, cut 1.02 cm above full buds, prune the whole plant to 1/3 of its original height, and leave 4-6 thicker branches while ensuring that the overall shape of the plant meets your desired appearance.
Propagation
Renowned for its particularly thorny stems and prolific nature, burnet rose can be efficiently propagated through the cutting method. To achieve successful growth, select healthy, semi-hardwood stems and make clean cuts. Utilize rooting hormone for better establishment and plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mixture. Consistent moisture and warmth are essential for roots to develop. With proper care, these cuttings can give rise to new burnet rose plants that will continue the legacy of this species’ resilience and charm.
Transplanting
The perfect time to replant burnet rose is in the heart of spring, offering optimal growth conditions. Choose a sunny locale with well-draining soil. When relocating, ensure minimal root disturbance for this hardy perennial’s best start.
III. Uses and BenefitsÂ
Burnet rose provides interest in flower gardens for much of the year, with spring foliage, bright summer flowers, and dark fall fruits. It’s a small shrub, so it makes a good ground cover or low hedge in either flower beds or borders. This plant grows well in sandy soil and is perfect for coastal gardens or cottage gardens. It must be guarded against rabbits and deer, however.
IV. Harvesting and Storage
Burnet rose produces excellent fresh flowers that can be pruned with sharp scissors as soon as they bloom. It is best to pick flowers in the morning to avoid loss of water through plant transpiration at noon. After picking, it is necessary to trim the base of the branch at a 45° angle to increase the water absorption area. Quickly put the flower into a vase with clean water to avoid water loss.
