Overview
Rosa spinosissima is a suckering, bushy roses in the genus Rosa, part of the Rosaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 1-1.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Rosa spinosissima grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH.
About
Rosa spinosissima, commonly known as Scotch rose, is a suckering, bushy rose cultivar that grows to a height of 0.5 to 1 metre with a spread of 1 to 1.5 metres. This deciduous shrub thrives in full sun or partial shade and is adaptable to various soil types including chalk, loam, and sand, with a preference for well-drained conditions. It is suitable for east, south, or west-facing aspects and can tolerate both exposed and sheltered locations. The plant is notable for its interest throughout spring, summer, and winter, reaching full height within 2 to 5 years.
About the genus
A rose is either a woody perennial flowering plant of the genus Rosa, in the family Rosaceae, or the flower it bears. There are over three hundred species and tens of thousands of cultivars. The plants range in size and form, from trailing and erect shrubs to climbers up to 7 metres (23 ft) in height.
Wikipedia contributors, "Rose", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Rose
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Rosa
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
Plant details
Rosa spinosissima size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Roses
- Habit
- Suckering, Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 1-1.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Rosa spinosissima?
Rosa spinosissima prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Rosa spinosissima need?
Rosa spinosissima is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How big does Rosa spinosissima grow?
Rosa spinosissima reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 1-1.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
From the Fenn Plants journal
- Notes on DaffodilsWhen to plant daffodil bulbs in the UK, how deep, how to naturalise them in grass, why daffodils stop flowering (“blindness”), and why you should never mix cut daffodils with other flowers.
- Keeping Your NerveHow to garden through a heatwave — the best time to water, why deep soaks beat daily sprinkles, caring for pots and vulnerable plants, and why you can let the lawn go brown.
- Made to LastHow to clean, store and protect garden pots and planters — the frost-proof vs frost-resistant difference, winter care for terracotta and ceramic, and how to reuse a broken pot.
More in the Rosa genus
- Rosa 'Alpine Sunset' (HT)

- Rosa 'Barbara Richards' (HT)

- Rosa 'Chaplin's Pink Companion' (Cl)

- Rosa 'Dutch Gold' (HT)

- Rosa 'Gavotte' (HT)

- Rosa 'Geranium Red' (F)

- Rosa 'Hovyn de Tronchère' (HT)

- Rosa 'Mabel Morrison' (HP)

Last updated