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Invasive Species: Multiflora Rose

Invasive Species: Multiflora Rose

Multiflora Rose

(Rosa multiflora)

*Established in Michigan*

Report this species:

Use the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network (MISIN) online reporting tool

- Or - download the MISIN smartphone app and report from your phone - MISIN.MSU.edu/tools/apps/#home

 

A multiflora rose shrub with green leaves and open, pink flowers.

Photo courtesy of Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org.

Bright red rose hips stand out against multiflora rose's green leaves.

Photo courtesy of Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org.

A multiflora rose leaf with nine, shiny green leaflets. Sharp, recurved thorns are visible on the stem.

Photo courtesy of Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org.

Identification:

  • Multi-stemmed shrub that grows to 15 feet.
  • Leaves divided into 5 to 11 sharply-toothed leaflets.
  • Stems are green to red and arching, with recurved thorns.
  • Clusters of small, 5-petaled, white to pink flowers have a strong fragrance.
  • Fruits are small, bright-red rose hips that persist into winter.

Habitat:  Once recommended for erosion control and livestock “living fences,” this fast-spreading shrub now inhabits pastures, old fields, roadsides, forests, streambanks and wetlands. Multiflora rose tolerates a broad range of soils and moisture conditions and can thrive in sun or shade.

Native Range: Japan, Korea, Eastern China.

U.S. Distribution: Eastern half of the United States as well as Oregon and Washington. 

Local Concern: Multiflora rose spreads aggressively, both by rooting canes (ends of branches) and by seed dispersed by birds and wildlife. Dense thickets of this shrub crowd out beneficial shrubs and plants and may deter native birds from nesting.

MORE INFORMATION:
Multiflora Rose Invasive Species Alert - Printable PDF