Multiflora Rose
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{{Taxobox | color = lightgreen | name = Multiflora Rose | image = Rosa-multiflora2.jpg | image_width = 250px | regnum = Plantae | divisio = Magnoliophyta | classis = Magnoliopsida | ordo = Rosales | familia = Rosaceae | subfamilia = Rosoideae | genus = Rosa | species = R. multiflora | binomial = Rosa multiflora | binomial_authority = Thunb. }}
Multiflora Rose, or Rosa multiflora, is a scrambling rose species native to eastern Asia, with long panicles of small white or pink flowers borne in early summer. Multiflora rose has recurved thorns and feathered stipules and petioles. This plant is readily distinguished from native roses in the U.S. by its flower or seed heads, which bear multiple flowers and hips, often more than a dozen, while the native species bear only one or a few on a branch.
In the eastern part of North America, Multiflora Rose is a non-native invasive species, though it was originally planted as a soil conservation measure and as a wildlife attracting plant. It is also used as a rootstock for ornamental roses.
Over time this plant has become a serious ecological problem, due to its ability to grow in diverse light, soil, and moisture conditions, and because its seeds are widely broadcast by birds. Once established, it forms nearly impenetrable thickets that displace native understory plants, and can become a fire hazard in wilderness areas. Some places classify Multiflora rose as a "noxious weed"[1]
In grazing areas, this rose is generally considered to be a serious pest, though it is considered excellent fodder for goats.
Because of its invasive nature and vicious thorns, some people have started to jokingly refer to this plant as "MF rose". Image:Rosa mulitflora berries.jpg
References
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| last = | first = | authorlink = | coauthors = Carole Bergmann, Montgomery County Department of Parks, Silver Spring, MD. and Jil M. Swearingen, U.S. National Park Service, Washington, DC | year = | url = http://www.nps.gov/plants/alien/fact/romu1.htm | title = Multiflora rose | format = | work = | publisher = U.S. National Park Service | accessdate = March 27 | accessyear = 2006