Commonly found growing in hedgerows, woodland edges and on scrub-land dog rose is a deciduous climbing shrub approximately 1–5 metres in height, though sometimes it can scramble higher into the crowns of taller trees. Its stems are covered with small, sharp hooked prickles, which aid it in climbing. As with all roses, the two main parts of the plant used for food are the flowers and the fruit, the hip. The flowers can be made into a syrup, or can be eaten in salads, or candied or preserved in vinegar, honey and brandy.