Season Window
10-16 to 02-14Wild hedges, coastal paths, scrub, old gardens, and lane edges
Late autumn to winter
Rosehip
Rosa canina
Rosehip carries colour after the flowers are gone: red lanterns in the hedge, tart winter medicine, and a reminder to store brightness carefully.
Harvest
How we meet this plant
Pick firm red hips after they colour fully, often sweeter after cold weather. Leave plenty for birds and winter wildlife.
Preparation
At the kitchen table
Prepare as syrup, tea, vinegar, jelly, oxymel, or dried fruit leather. Strain very carefully to remove irritating hairs and seeds.
Community Use
Why we teach it
A winter teaching plant for immune-season preparations, hedgerow care, and slow kitchen medicine.
Safety
The hairs inside hips can irritate skin and digestion. Strain through fine cloth and avoid using mouldy or roadside fruit.