Sweetbriar is a fragrant, thorny shrub that is native to western Asia and Europe. It is commonly known by its scientific name, Rosa rubiginosa, but there are several other synonyms for this botanical species. Some of the most common synonyms for sweetbriar include the eglantine rose, the wild rose, the dog rose, and the sweet briar rose. Other regional variations or local names for sweetbriar include the Scottish brier, the briar rose, and the hedge-pig rose. No matter what you call it, sweetbriar is prized for its fragrant blooms, decorative foliage, and versatile medicinal properties.