Rosa Rugosa

Rosa rugosa is a wild rose species native to East Asia — Japan, China, and the Korean Peninsula — where it grows naturally along Hokkaido's coastlines and is known in Japanese as 'Hamanasu'. It is designated the official flower of Hokkaido. Deep magenta-pink single to semi-double blooms of 7–9cm carry a powerful, sweet fragrance, followed in autumn by large, tomato-shaped hips rich in Vitamin C, traditionally used in jams and herbal teas. Cold hardiness is exceptional; it is equally tolerant of coastal conditions including salt spray, sandy soil, and drought. Disease resistance is outstanding and the plant thrives with virtually no chemical inputs. Its robust constitution and graceful natural form make it nearly self-sufficient in the garden.

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