Sweet Briar Rose

Prior to 1551

5 to 8 foot shrub or 10 to 15 foot climber

Known as the "Sweet Briar Rose" because of the strongly apple-scented leaves, this is a favorite English native that has been recorded in literature from Chaucer to Shakespeare. R. eglanteria, or 'Eglanteria', has been common in cottage gardens on both sides of the Atlantic because it is not only hardy but always fragrant, whether or not it is in bloom. The rambling shrub is large, thorny, and vigorous with dark green, slightly rough foliage. Spring flowers are pink with five petals and have a good rose fragrance of their own. R. eglanteria should be part of every fragrance garden. Rain, wind and sun all seem to bring out the perfume of the plant. If supported as a climber, it could reach 10 to 15 feet.