Rose, Wild Rose, Garden Rose
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Rosales, Family: Rosaceae, Genus: Rosa, Species: Rosa sp. · Rosaceae (Rose family) · Compound (pinnately compound with leaflets, typically deciduous)
Species
Rosa rubiginosa (or related Rosa species)
Leaf Type
Compound (pinnately compound with leaflets, typically deciduous)
Family
Rosaceae (Rose family)
Shape
Elliptical to ovate leaflets with acute tips and cuneate bases
Size
Individual leaflets are approximately 1.5 to 2.5 inches long, typical for many shrub rose species
Margin
Serrate (sharply toothed edges)
Arrangement
Alternate on the stem with stipules
Rarity
Very Common
Color & Pattern
Dried specimen showing olive-green to yellowish-green leaflets with dark spots indicating age or minor fungal spotting; the central flower is a deep dried crimson-red with darker shaded areas
Venation Pattern
Pinnate venation with a prominent midrib and branching lateral veins
Texture & Surface
Pressed and dried specimen, matte finish, slightly papery texture
Description
A classic pressed botanical specimen featuring a central multi-petaled red rose flower accompanied by compound green leaves and a woody stem. Roses are cherished worldwide for their ornamental beauty, stunning blooms, and fragrant presence in gardens and wild landscapes alike
Key Features
Pinnately compound leaves with serrated margins, stipules at the petiole base, prickles on the stems, and showy multi-petaled flowers
Habitat
Thrives in sunny locations with well-drained, fertile soil, ranging from woodland edges to cultivated gardens
Geographic Range
Widely distributed globally across the temperate zones of the Northern Hemisphere, with many species native to Asia, Europe, North America, and Northwest Africa
Condition Notes
Pressed and dried herbarium specimen in fair-to-good condition, showing some natural fading, darkening, and minor black spot fungal markings typical of dried rose foliage
Interesting Facts
Roses have a deep fossil history dating back some 35 million years and have been cultivated by humans for over 5,000 years, symbolizing love, beauty, and politics across various cultures
Medicinal & Uses
Rose petals and hips are used in teas, jams, cosmetics, and traditional medicines for their high vitamin C content and soothing properties. Widely used in perfumery and horticulture
Ecological Role
Provides nectar and pollen for a wide variety of native insects and pollinators. Rose hips serve as an important food source for birds and small mammals during autumn and winter
Similar Species
Other members of the Rosaceae family such as Rubus (blackberries/raspberries) which also feature compound leaves and prickles, but differ in fruit and floral structure
Foraging Tips
Look for shrubby, often prickly growth habits along hedgerows, forest borders, and cultivated garden areas. Best identified by thorns, alternate compound leaves, and characteristic flowers or hips
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic. Rose petals, hips, and leaves are generally safe for humans and pets, though care should be taken to avoid stems with sharp prickles
Notes
Flower was vibrant red originally