Observation guide
What to look for
- 01
It has arching, thorny branches; the stems can climb by leaning on vegetation.
- 02
Its compound leaves usually have five or seven leaflets.
- 03
The flowers have five petals and are pale pink or white; they may appear singly or in small groups.
- 04
Red, ovoid fruits form after flowering.
Lighting, age and viewing angle can hide features. If identification affects consumption, handling or conservation, consult specialist sources.
Ecology
Description and characteristics
Rosa canina is a deciduous shrub with an arching growth habit and vigorous stems bearing thorns. Its leaves are compound and usually have five or seven leaflets; the simple flowers appear singly or in small groups and are pale pink or white.
Flowering is followed by red, ovoid fruits. The species can reach several metres in height, although the available sources give different estimates and no figure is stated here.