Rosa primula is a wild species rose that is native to the Chinese provinces and was reputedly introduced to Europe from Samarkand in Uzbekistan, via the old Silk Road from China.
Flowering in springtime, it is one of the earliest roses to bloom.
The foliage is borne on arching stems and is delicate and quite fern-like, with glands that secret the incense like scent from young leaves in warm damp weather.
The red hips and distinctive stems provide some interest over winter.