Unveiling the nutritional value: Phytochemical profiling of Greek Rosa canina L. germplasm across ripening stages and fertilization treatment

Rosa canina L. is among the woody species which thrive through diverse habitats and is distinguished for its high nutritional value. In recent years R. canina L. has raised awareness due to its high demand in cosmetology and pharmacology. This study focuses on the results of a three-year experimental site including four R. canina L. genotypes treated with two fertilization regimes (conventional, organic) and harvested under four ripening stages. Τhe results indicate the most suitable period for harvesting the rosehip fruit in terms of ascorbic acid, antioxidant capacity and total phenolic compounds. This study recommends the first two ripening stages in order to achieve the highest concentration of ascorbic acid (4.53 mg g-1 F.W.). The last ripening stage came across as being the most appropriate stage for the highest total phenolic content (31.2 mg GAE g-1 FW) and in the meantime, this study highlights that the distinct ripening stages do not fluctuate the levels of total antioxidant capacity. Overall, the current study tries to identify the nutritional potential of domesticated R. canina L. and specify which of the ripening stages and fertilization regimes maximize its post-harvest value.