Multiflora Rose
Rosa Multiflora (CISMA, USDA, Wikipedia, GoBotany , Invasives.org )
Multiflora Rose is a densely spreading perennial shrub that can grow up to 15 ft. tall. It has shiny, thorny arching canes that can be red to green in color. The leaves are alternate and pinnately compound, with 5-11 serrated, elliptic leaflets that are 1-1.5 in. long. These leaves are smooth and dark above and pale with small hairs below. This plant produces fragrant flowers during May and June. Each inflorescence bears many flowers, and the flowers have five white (occasionally pink) petals and numerous stamens. Red fruits develop in mid to late summer, are nearly spherical and measure 0.25-0.3 in. in diameter. It can be identified by the hairs along the sides of the base of the leaf stems.
Multiflora Rose is a serious invasive around Acton. It forms impenetrable thickets wherever it is given the chance. Removal of the root cluster is necessary to kill the plant. Long vines will form roots anywhere they touch ground. Protective gear (including eye protection) is required for working with this plant. Its vicious thorns can easily pierce light cloth and jeans.
It is found on all Acton conservation lands.
Common Mis-Identifications
Look for the hairs along the base of the leaf stems (fringed stipules) to identify this plant. Occasionally you may instead encounter these natives:
- Carolina Rose (Rosa Virginiana). Pink flowers. Found in dry areas. Found along the eastern edge of the Playing Field in Great Hill, and around the Arboretum.
- Virginia Rose (Rosa Virginiana). Pink flowers. Found in dry areas.
- Beach Rose (Rosa Rugosa) straight thorns all over the stem. Actually introduced to North America in the 1700s, but not very invasive. Grown in the Arboretum.
- Shining Rose (Rosa Nitida) - The stems are covered in many straight prickles, unlike Multiflora Rose. Bright Pink flowers. Found in wetlands.
- Swamp Rose (Rosa Palustris) - The stems have pairs of stout downwardly curving spines. Delicate pink flowers. Found in wetlands.