Eglantine
Rosa rubiginosa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Eglantine (Rosa rubiginosa) 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
full sun
Water
medium
Size
72"–120" H × 48"–96" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
MD
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Rosa rubiginosa is a vigorous deciduous shrub that produces fragrant pink flowers in summer followed by bright red hips. This European rose naturalizes easily and can form dense thickets if not managed. The foliage has a distinctive apple-like fragrance when crushed.
In an HOA neighborhood
Eglantine 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 spreader that can look unruly
- Thorny canes may be considered unsafe
- Can appear weedy without regular pruning
Wildlife value
Flowers attract bees, beetles, and flies during summer blooming period. The persistent red hips provide food for birds through fall and winter.
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 Eglantine fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.