Common-briar
Rosa canina
Last reviewed: June 2026
Common-briar (Rosa canina) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
72"–180" H × 48"–120" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
ID
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Common-briar is a large, thorny rose shrub that produces fragrant pink or white flowers in late spring and early summer, followed by bright red rose hips in fall. This vigorous grower can reach up to 15 feet tall and wide, forming dense thickets if not regularly pruned. The thorny canes and suckering habit require consistent management to maintain an attractive garden appearance.
In an HOA neighborhood
Common-briar takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Aggressive spreading habit with thorny suckers
- Can appear wild and unkempt without frequent pruning
- Large mature size may overwhelm typical residential landscapes
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles during the blooming season, while the rose hips provide food for birds through fall and winter. The dense, thorny structure also offers nesting sites and protective cover for various wildlife species.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Common-briar fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.