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Description
Rosa Multiflora, also known as the multiflora rose or baby rose, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the family Rosaceae. It is native to eastern Asia and was introduced to North America in the 1860s for use as rootstock for ornamental roses. It is now considered an invasive species in many parts of the United States.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Rosa |
Appearance
Rosa Multiflora can grow up to 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide. It has arching canes that are covered with small, sharp thorns. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with serrated edges. In late spring to early summer, it produces clusters of small, fragrant white or pink flowers. The flowers are followed by small red hips that persist into winter.
Care Guide
Rosa Multiflora is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Rosa Multiflora prefers well-draining soil, but can tolerate a range of soil types.
- Sunlight: It prefers full sun, but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Rosa Multiflora is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rosa Multiflora can be susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including:
- Japanese beetles: These beetles can skeletonize the leaves of the plant.
- Black spot: This fungal disease causes black spots on the leaves, which can eventually cause the leaves to drop off.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a powdery white coating on the leaves.
- Canker: This bacterial disease can cause dieback of the branches.
Habitat
Rosa Multiflora can be found in a variety of habitats, including forest edges, fields, and roadsides. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Rosa Multiflora an invasive species?
A: Yes, Rosa Multiflora is considered an invasive species in many parts of the United States.
Q: Can Rosa Multiflora be grown as a hedge?
A: Yes, Rosa Multiflora can be grown as a hedge due to its thorny canes.
Q: Are the hips of Rosa Multiflora edible?
A: Yes, the hips of Rosa Multiflora are edible and can be used to make jelly and tea.
Q: Can Rosa Multiflora be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Rosa Multiflora can be propagated from hardwood cuttings taken in late fall or early winter.
Related Plants
- Rosa rugosa
- Rosa canina
- Rosa gallica
- Rosa damascena
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Rosa multiflora Thunb. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ROMU
- Cornell University. (n.d.). Multiflora Rose. Retrieved from https://www.invasive.org/weedcd/pdfs/wgw/multiflora-rose.pdf
- Morton Arboretum. (n.d.). Rosa multiflora. Retrieved from https://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/multiflora-rose
