Native Plant Alternatives to Rosa multiflora (Multiflora Rose)

Rosa multiflora (Multiflora Rose) is considered invasive in many parts of the United States and elsewhere. Native to eastern Asia, it was initially introduced to North America in the 1860s as a rootstock for ornamental roses. It was also planted widely for erosion control and as living fences to confine livestock.

Multiflora rose can form impenetrable thickets that exclude native plants and alter habitats. It grows vigorously and can spread both by seeds (which are readily dispersed by birds and other wildlife that eat the rose hips) and by rooting at the tips of its arching canes when they touch the ground.

In addition, multiflora rose is remarkably adaptable, tolerating a range of conditions from full sun to shade, several soil types, and various moisture levels. This adaptability, coupled with its aggressive growth and reproductive habits, make it a significant problem in areas where it’s become established.

Multiflora Rose is listed in the Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States.

According to the U.S Forest Service, Invasive species have contributed to the decline of 42% of U.S. endangered and threatened species and 18% of U.S. endangered or threatened species. Invasive species compete directly with native species for moisture, sunlight, nutrients, and space. They displace and alter native plant communities, degrade wildlife habitat and water quality, and potentially lead to increased soil erosion.

The federal government has estimated that nearly 25 percent of the 20,000 plant species native to North America are at risk of extinction, many of these through habitat loss. You can help reverse this trend by planting great native plants in your garden.

A plant is considered native if it occurs naturally in a particular region or ecosystem without human introduction. There are many benefits to growing native plants. First, these plants are better adapted to soils, moisture, and weather than exotic plants that evolved in other parts of the world. They need fewer fertilizers and pesticides or use less water. Second, they are unlikely to escape and become invasive, destroying natural habitats. Third, they support wildlife, providing shelter and food for native birds and insects, while exotic plants do not.