Salish Seasonal Guide

Rosehips

Rosehips are the fruit of the rose plant.

When to go:

November, December, January

Where to go:

• Mercer Slough Nature Park

What to look for:

Wild roses and garden roses will all produce rosehips if the stems are left un-pruned after blooming. Rosehips are usually red or orange, and appear after the rose blossom has withered. Rosehips are edible and can be used to make tea, jam and marmalade, or they can be eaten raw.

If you eat a rosehip, be sure to avoid the small hairs inside! Rosehips are an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Many animals use them as a source of winter food.

Sources:
Parks and Recreation, 2012
Plants Of The Pacific Northwest Coast: Washington, Oregon, British Columbia & Alaska, Lone Pine 2004
Images by Molly Kent