Small-Flower Sweetbriar

(Rosa micrantha)

Small-Flower Sweetbriar (Rosa micrantha)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Rosa micrantha, commonly known as Small-Flower Sweetbriar or Small-flowered Rose, is a deciduous shrub native to a variety of habitats across Europe and Western Asia, including hedgerows, woodland edges, and scrublands. It typically grows at a moderate rate to a height and width of 3-10 feet (0.9-3 meters). The plant features small, pink flowers that are quite showy and bloom in the summer, providing a delicate aesthetic appeal. The foliage is also noteworthy for its fragrance when crushed. In addition to its ornamental flowers, Rosa micrantha produces small red hips that can persist into winter, adding seasonal interest.

Small-Flower Sweetbriar is valued for its versatility in the landscape, serving as an excellent choice for naturalistic plantings, wildlife gardens, and as part of mixed shrub borders. It is also used for hedging due to its dense growth habit. This rose is relatively easy to maintain, tolerating a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, as long as they offer medium to fast drainage. It performs best in full sun to part shade and requires medium amounts of water. While generally robust, it can be susceptible to common rose ailments such as black spot and powdery mildew. Pruning is recommended to maintain shape and promote air circulation, which helps minimize disease risk.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 3-10 feet
  • Width: 3-10 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Border Plant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to a variety of habitats including hedgerows, woodland edges, and scrublands across Europe and Western Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Small-flowered Rose

Scientific Names: , Rosa micrantha, Rosa canescens f. subatrichostylis, Rosa chomutiviensis, Rosa delphinensis, Rosa elliptica subsp. subeglanteria, Rosa heteroclita, Rosa klukii var. subcalvescens, Rosa leucidia, Rosa lichtensteinii

GBIF Accepted Name: