Rosa rubiginosa

Rosa rubiginosa, commonly known as sweet briar or eglantine, is a deciduous shrub native to Europe and western Asia, though it is rare and absent in the extreme north. It grows up to 2–3 meters tall, with hooked prickles and fragrant apple-scented leaves. The plant has pinnately compound leaves with serrated margins and glandular hairs, producing clusters of pink flowers (1.8–3 cm) from late spring to mid-summer, followed by red hips.

The name "eglantine" originates from Old French, relating to its sweet fragrance, while "briar" refers to its thorniness. Native to pastures and thorny bushes in sunny climates, it is endangered in Portugal's Serra da Estrela range.

Valued for its scent, flowers, and hips, Rosa rubiginosa has historical uses including rosehip tea, rich in vitamin C, which was crucial during WWII. In Tunisia, its flowers are used for perfumes, while in Chile and Argentina, it is cultivated for marmalades and cosmetics but has become invasive.

As an invasive species, it causes significant economic damage in regions like Argentine Patagonia, southern Chile, Australia, and New Zealand. It is banned in certain areas due to its impact on native species and ecosystems.