Rosa villosa (Apple Rose, Hairy Dog Rose, Downy Rose, Shaggy Rose)
Description: Rosa villosa, also known as Apple Rose, Hairy Dog Rose, Downy Rose, or Shaggy Rose, is a versatile and resilient species of wild rose. Renowned for its large, vitamin C-rich rose hips resembling small apples, this plant is both decorative and practical. Its dense foliage, soft hairs, and striking flowers make it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a blend of beauty and functionality in their gardens.
Key Features: • Plant Size: Forms a robust shrub growing up to 1.5–2 meters in height and width, ideal for hedgerows, wildlife gardens, or standalone features. • Flowers: Single, pink, or pale pink flowers, approximately 5–6 cm in diameter, blooming in late spring to early summer. • Fruits: Produces large, rounded red or orange rose hips that resemble miniature apples. These hips are rich in vitamin C and persist well into winter, adding both decorative and practical value. • Leaves: Hairy, pinnate leaves with a soft texture, enhancing its distinct appearance. • Hardiness: Highly frost-tolerant, thriving in cold climates, and resistant to drought and poor soil conditions.
Cultivation Instructions: • Planting: Sow seeds in well-drained soil in spring or autumn. Rosa villosa thrives in sunny or partially shaded locations. • Stratification: Seeds require cold stratification. Refrigerate in moist sand or peat at 4°C for 6–8 weeks before planting to enhance germination. • Watering: Low-maintenance once established, requiring watering only during prolonged dry periods. • Pruning: Prune annually in late winter or early spring to remove old or weak stems and encourage vigorous growth. • Soil Preference: Adapts well to a variety of soil types, including poor and chalky soils.
Uses and Benefits: • Landscaping: Perfect for wildlife-friendly gardens, hedgerows, or as an attractive, low-maintenance feature plant. • Wildlife Support: Rose hips and flowers attract birds and pollinators, enhancing biodiversity in your garden. • Culinary and Medicinal Use: The large, vitamin C-rich hips are excellent for making jams, syrups, and herbal teas. • Aesthetic Appeal: Combines soft, textured foliage with vibrant flowers and fruits for year-round interest.
Historical Note: Rosa villosa has been appreciated for centuries, particularly in traditional medicine, for its nutrient-dense hips. Its unique appearance and functional value have made it a favorite in cottage and wildlife gardens across Europe and beyond.
Shipping Information: Deodar Seeds ensures all seeds are carefully selected and packed to maintain their freshness and viability. We ship within India and internationally, with delivery typically within 1–2 weeks.