**3.1** *Rosa rugosa* **Thunb**

*Rosa rugosa* is a small shrub forming dense thickets. It has large white or pink flowers (8–10 cm across) and yields slightly flat round orange fruits, which are some of the largest among rose hips [25]. *R. Rugosa* is also known as Rugosa rose or Japanese rose [6], Beach rose, or Wrinkled rose, deriving the latter name from its distinctive wrinkled leaves. The species originated in Asia, where roots have been used in traditional medicine for many years [24]. It was first introduced to Europe in 1796 as an ornamental plant [26]. However, after 1845, it became a garden escape in many areas, such that it can now be found growing wild in 16 countries including Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Belgium, Austria, the European part of Russia, Germany, and Poland [26]. *R. rugosa* hips can be harvested from late July to early December.

*R. rugosa* is a strong and hardy plant, capable of living under harsh conditions, including along coastal areas. It easily out-matches other species and its dense shrubs can rapidly spread over larger areas, with the exclusion of many local species. For this reason, *R. rugosa* is considered an invasive species in many European countries. In Denmark, the plant is currently being removed in some areas by the local environmental agencies. However, as indicated by Skrypnik et al, it might be worth considering the rich nutritional content and potential health benefits of this species when discussing whether it should be removed from the environment or not [27].
