Rosehip
Rosehip is the ripened fruit of the wild dog rose, valued by florists for the glossy scarlet berries that follow the summer bloom. Borne in loose clusters along arching, sometimes thorny stems, the hips bring an unmistakably seasonal, foraged feel to autumn work. They mix beautifully into rustic bouquets, garlands and harvest-table designs, adding warm colour and a natural, hedgerow texture. Long-lasting and inexpensive, rosehip is a florist staple from late summer through the festive season.
| Family | Rosaceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | Europe, Northwest Africa and Western Asia |
| Peak season | September, October |
| Availability | August, September, October, November, December |
| Stem length | 30–70 cm |
| Vase life | 7–14 days |
| Colors | red, orange |
| Price tier | budget |
Cut stems on a sharp angle and remove any lower thorns and leaves that would sit below the waterline. Give a deep drink of cool water for a few hours before arranging. The fruits hold well without special feed, though a splash of flower food keeps foliage fresh; store cool and out of direct sun to stop hips shrivelling.
- •Strip thorns and lower leaves before arranging
- •Recut stems on an angle and use cool water
- •Keep away from direct sun and heat to prevent shrivelling
- •Change water every few days to keep stems clean
- •Handle carefully as ripe hips can drop
