Multiflora Rose

Rosa multiflora

Past efforts to use this rose shrub as live fencing in pasture land has made it a problem in current pasture lands, successional fields, and in other open habitats throughout the state. 

The shrub grows to 10' and has arching, thorny stems. The compound leaves are made up of 7 to 9 leaflets (1 - 1.5") arranged in an alternating fashion along the leaf stem and a terminal leaflet. The leaflets are oval with serrated edges. A distinguishing feature is that the stipules, the green growths at the base of  leafstalks, are feathery. The 5-petaled flowers bloom in May or June and are fragrant, white or pink, and about 1" diameter. Bright red rosehips develop during the summer and can stay on through the winter. As they dry out they become leathery and brown.

Fact Sheet: Multiflora Rose 

You can distinguish this rose from native wild roses by its feathery stipules. 
Photo credits (from left to right): James H. Miller, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org; Chris Evans, River to River CWMA, Bugwood.org

Photo Credit:  Chris Moorman