Multiflora rose | The Morton Arboretum

Multiflora rose is an exotic weed in Illinois. The Illinois Exotic Weed Act prohibits the sale or distribution of this plant in Illinois. This plant spreads by seed, as well as a natural process of layering in which the stems lower towards the soil and sprout new root systems. Multiflora rose spreads quickly and aggressively, producing up to 500,000 seeds a year. Because of its dense growth habit, it can reduce the amount of space available to native plants. It commonly grows in woodlands and grasslands such as forests, prairies, savannas, and most disturbed sites. It was introduced from Asia and today can be found throughout most of the United States.

Multiflora rose is also an invasive plant. An invasive plant is a plant species that is non-native to the location being considered and whose presence and spread negatively impacts (or is likely to impact) ecological, economic or human health. Data collected at The Morton Arboretum show that this shrub is invasive on the Arboretum grounds.

As an alternative, prairie rose (Rosa setigera) is a good option that is native to Illinois. There are a number of native and non-native species that could be used in place of multiflora rose. More desirable species may be found using the online Search Trees and Plants page of the Arboretum website. Before purchasing or planting, be sure to check for any local or state guidelines on these species, and make sure that the plant is suitable for its habitat by checking its attributes at mortonarb.org or plants.usda.gov.

More Information

Size and Method of Spreading

The medium-sized shrub can reach 10 to 15 feet in height and about 10 feet in width. It typically grows in clusters and has a wide-spreading habit, contributing to concentrated thickets.

Bark Color and Texture

Multiflora rose’s thin stems are green to reddish-brown with pairs of recurved thorns at the nodes.

Leaf Description

The alternate, pinnately compound leaves have five to nine leaflets that are small with an oval (ovate) shape. They can have sharp or curved teeth around the edges (serrated or crenate leaf margins). The leaves on the surface are dark green and smooth, while the underside of the leaf is lighter green with small hairs. The leaf stalks (petioles) bear fringed stipules that are a distinctive characteristic of this species.

Flower Description

Flowers are borne in clusters (panicle inflorescence). They are white, with five petals in a symmetrical shape. Each flower is ½ inch in size. Flowering time is late spring.

Fruit Description

Multiflora rose develops clusters of small rose hips, each with multiple fruits (achenes) inside. The rose hips are bright to dark red in color, and about ¼ inch long.