Multiflora rose
Rosa multiflora
Multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora) is medium-sized, thorny shrub with a spreading growth form, often forming thickets, that blooms in May-June. Look for the fringed leaf bases, as shown in the inset photo above, to distinguish this plant from other roses. Light infestations may be removed by pulling plants, if all roots are removed. Prescribed burning in fire-adapted communities controls invasion. Three to six cuttings/ mowings a year can achieve high plant mortality. Cutting stems and either painting 10-20% glyphosate on the stump with a sponge applicator or spraying herbicide on the stump with a low-pressure hand-held sprayer kills root systems and prevents re-sprouting. With this technique, herbicide is applied specifically to the target plant, reducing the possibilities of damaging nearby, desirable vegetation. Read more in this Missouri Department of Conservation Multiflora Rose Fact Sheet.
Identification and fact sheets
- Learn about Multiflora rose at Invasive.org
- Read more from the Missouri Department of Conservation about identification, threats, and control practices of Multiflora rose
- Read about SIU’s Touch of Nature removing invasive plants, restoring native flora and fauna
Representative photos of Multiflora rose:
Multiflora rose impact, abundance, and trend in Missouri
