Rose hips are the fruit of the rose bush after the bloom has died. Most people cut off spent flowers and therefore don't ever get to see the rose hips, but when left untouched, the rose bush can turn into a real beauty late in the season.
Apparently the tastiest rose hips come from the Rugosa Rose. And I read online that rose hips have a tangy, fruity flavor similar to that of cranberries. The fruits are best harvested after the first frost, which makes them turn bright red and slightly soft.
I have had rose hip tea and found it to be fruity and pleasant but have never eaten them in any form (jams or sauces). Have you? What do you think?
Personally, I'm just glad my neighbor didn't prune his rose bushes this year so I could enjoy the gorgeous hips that have formed. Thanks neighbor!
Dear Kate, Rose hips certainly do extend the period of interest of rose bushes. I particularly like the fat ones made by the Rugosa roses. The hips always look particularly beautiful I think, in the low light of an autumn afternoon.
ReplyDeleteHow interesting! I cut off the dead blooms of our roses, but maybe I should leave them on to see this rose hips! I had no idea it was edible too.
ReplyDelete