Multiflora rose Rosa multiflora L.
Family: Rosaceae (Rose family)
Life cycle: Perennial, reproducing by seed and rooting of tips of canes that touch the ground (layering).
Native status: Introduced as ornamental, living fence; still used as rootstock for cultivated rose varieties.
Habitat: Pastures, prairies, openings in wooded areas
General description: Perennial shrub with arching canes reaching heights of 5 to 10 ft. Leaves pinnately compound with five to eleven toothed leaflets, stipule at base of petiole resembles a fringe of hairs. Flowers are white, ½ - ¾ in wide and produced in early June. Fruit are red, ¼ in in diameter and often remain on canes throughout winter.
Key ID traits: The fringed stipule on the base of the leaf petioles distinguishes multiflora rose from other native Rosa species.
Similar species: The wild prairie rose (Rosa pranticola) is the state flower of Iowa. It is much smaller than multiflora rose (less than 2 ft fall) and lacks the hairy stipules. Flowers of wild rose usually are pink compared to the white flowers of multiflora rose.
Miscellaneous: Multiflora rose was introduced to the US for use as wildlife cover and planting as living fences. Rose rosette disease has reduced the severity of infestations in the state, but usually only affects plants in full sun. It is believed to be caused by a virus, it causes formation of witch’s brooms and red stems and foliage. The disease also infects cultivated varieties, so there has been little effort to develop it as a biological control agent.
Meaghan Anderson Field Agronomist in Central Iowa
Meaghan Anderson is a field agronomist in central Iowa and an extension field specialist at Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Educational programming is available for farmers, agribusinesses, pesticide applicators, certified crop advisors, and other individuals interested in...