The Dog-rose (Rosa canina) is a native flowering shrub in the United Kingdom, belonging to the Rosaceae family. It is commonly found in hedgerows, woodlands, scrublands, and along roadsides throughout the UK.

Dog-roses are adaptable plants that thrive in a variety of habitats, including well-drained soils in full sun to partial shade. They often prefer edges of woodlands or areas with some level of disturbance, where they can spread through natural means or bird dispersal.

As a deciduous shrub, the Dog-rose produces beautiful pink or white flowers in spring and early summer, followed by red-orange rose hips in autumn. These hips are rich in vitamin C and are often used to make teas, syrups, jams, and other culinary treats.

Predators of the Dog-rose include various insects and pests that may feed on its foliage or flowers, including aphids, caterpillars, and beetles. However, they are typically not heavily impacted by predation.

Culturally, the Dog-rose has been celebrated in British folklore and literature. It has been associated with beauty, love, and protection, and its flowers have been used in traditional herbal remedies for various ailments.

An interesting fact about the Dog-rose is that its rose hips were commonly used during World War II in the UK as a source of vitamin C when citrus fruits were scarce. Additionally, the Dog-rose is a valuable plant for wildlife, providing food and habitat for birds, insects, and small mammals throughout the year.