Rosa multiflora is a multistemmed, thorny, perennial shrub that grows up to 15 ft. (4.6 m) tall. The stems are green to red arching canes which are round in cross section and have stiff, curved thorns.
Foliage
Leaves are pinnately compound with 7-9 leaflets. Leaflets are oblong, 1-1.5 in. (2.5-3.8 cm) long and have serrated edges. The fringed petioles of Rosa multiflora usually distinguish it from most other rose species.
Flowers
Small, white to pinkish, 5-petaled flowers occur abundantly in clusters on the plant in the spring.
Fruit
Fruit are small, red rose hips that remain on the plant throughout the winter. Birds and other wildlife eat the fruit and disperse the seeds.
Ecological Threat
Rosa multiflora forms impenetrable thickets in pastures, fields, and forest edges. It restricts human, livestock, and wildlife movement and displaces native vegetation. It tolerates a wide range of conditions allowing it to invade habitats across the United States. Rosa multiflora is native to Asia and was first introduced to North America in 1866 as rootstock for ornamental roses. During the mid 1900s it was widely planted as a “living fence” for livestock control.