Wild Rose (also known as Dog Rose or Prairie Rose)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Rosales, Family: Rosaceae, Genus: Rosa, Species: R. acicularis · Rosaceae (Rose family) · Compound (pinnate, typically with 5 to 7 leaflets; single leaflet shown)
Species
Rosa acicularis
Leaf Type
Compound (pinnate, typically with 5 to 7 leaflets; single leaflet shown)
Family
Rosaceae (Rose family)
Shape
Elliptical to ovate
Size
Approximately 1.5 inches long and 0.75 inches wide, typical for an individual leaflet of this species which usually ranges from 1 to 2.5 inches.
Margin
Serrate (finely toothed)
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Very Common
Color & Pattern
Dark green upper surface, paler green lower surface with a smooth, matte appearance.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate venation with a prominent central midrib and ascending lateral veins.
Texture & Surface
Smooth, slightly leathery (coriaceous), and matte on the upper surface.
Description
A deciduous shrub featuring prickly stems, fragrant pink flowers, and fleshy red rose hips in autumn. The leaves are compound with serrated margins, turning golden yellow in the fall.
Key Features
Finely serrate margins, elliptical shape, prominent midrib, and alternate arrangement on prickly stems.
Habitat
Thickets, woodland edges, clearings, and along riverbanks in well-drained soils and full to partial sun.
Geographic Range
Widespread across the temperate and boreal regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia.
Condition Notes
Dry herbarium specimen in fair to good condition, showing typical preservation darkening with intact margins and structure.
Interesting Facts
Rose hips are exceptionally high in Vitamin C and are commonly used to make teas, jellies, and syrups.
Medicinal & Uses
Used in traditional herbal medicine for immune support, teas, and skincare products derived from rose hips and petals.
Ecological Role
Provides crucial food and shelter for birds, small mammals, and pollinators.
Similar Species
Other Rosa species such as Rosa rugosa or Rosa blanda, distinguished by prickle density and flower characteristics.
Foraging Tips
Look for thorny shrubs along woodland borders and fields, particularly when in bloom during late spring or when bearing hips in autumn.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic (rose hips and petals are edible, though care should be taken to avoid sharp prickles and hairs inside hips).