Rosa multiflora (syn. Rosa polyantha) is a species of rose known commonly as multiflora rose, baby rose,

Description

It is a scrambling perennial shrub climbing over other plants to a height of , with stout stems with recurved prickles (sometimes absent). It reproduces through seed as well as vegetatively, rooting from the tips of its long, arching canes. The leaves are long, pinnately compound, with 5–9 leaflets and feathered stipules. The flowers are produced in large corymbs, each flower small, diameter, white or pink, borne in early summer. The fruits are hips and are reddish to purple, diameter.

One plant may produce 500,000 seeds each year. It can be found in pastures and along field edges and roads.

In eastern North America, Rosa multiflora is considered an invasive species. It was originally introduced from Asia as a soil conservation measure, as a natural hedge to border grazing land, and to attract wildlife. In some regions the plant is classified as a noxious weed. In grazing areas, it is generally considered to be a serious pest, though it is excellent fodder for goats.

The achene fruits (hips) of Rosa multiflora (referred to as "Eijitsu" or "Rosae fructus") are used to make a tea and in traditional medicine historically and in modern clinical practice to treat constipation.

Management

The targeted removal of multiflora rose often requires an aggressive technique, such as the full removal of the plant in addition to the root structure. Pruning and cutting back of the plant often leads to re-sprouting. Two natural biological controls include the rose rosette disease and the rose seed chalid (Megastigmus aculeastus var. nigroflavus). Patches of introduced multiflora rose in Pennsylvania are displaying symptoms of rose rosette disease, which can lead to decline and death.

<gallery mode="packed">

File:Rosa multiflora a03.jpg|alt=Whole plant

File:20140227Rosa multiflora1.jpg|alt=Bark

File:Multiflora Rose.JPG|alt=Foliage

File:20140509Rosa multiflora04.jpg|alt=Flowers

File:Rosa-multiflora-Flower.jpg|alt=Flower close-up

File:20151002Rosa multiflora.jpg|Hips (fruits)

File:球磨川のツクシイバラ Rosa multiflora adenochaeta of Kumagawa River. - panoramio (3).jpg|Blossom of var. cathayensis on the Kuma River of Japan.

</gallery>

References

  • Species Profile – Multiflora Rose, National Invasive Species Information Center, United States National Agricultural Library. Lists general information and resources for Multiflora Rose.