multiflora rose

It is a scrambling perennial shrub climbing over other plants to a height of 3–5 m (9 ft 10 in – 16 ft 5 in), with stout stems with recurved prickles (sometimes absent). It reproduces through seed as well as vegetatively, rooting from the tips of its long, arching canes. The leaves are 5–10 cm (2–4 in) long, pinnately compound, with 5–9 leaflets and feathered stipules. The flowers are produced in large corymbs, each flower small, 1.5–4 cm (5⁄8–1+5⁄8 in) diameter, white or pink, borne in early summer. The fruits are hips and are reddish to purple, 6–8 mm (15⁄64–5⁄16 in) diameter. One plant may produce 500,000 seeds each year. Seeds are tan to yellow and up to 0.16 inches, and seed germination rates can be as high as 90% in ideal conditions and seeds remain viable for up to 20 years.

It is native to eastern Asia and invasive in parts of North America. It prefers full sun and well-drained, less fertile soils, and is tolerant of partial shade, in which it is less productive. It can be found in pastures and along field edges and roads.

Rosa multiflora is grown as an ornamental plant and also used as a rootstock for grafted ornamental rose cultivars. It is also used for erosion control and as a living fence. In eastern North America, Rosa multiflora is considered an invasive species. It was originally introduced from Asia as a soil conservation measure, as a natural hedge to border grazing land, and to attract wildlife. In some regions the plant is classified as a noxious weed. In grazing areas, it is generally considered to be a serious pest, though it is excellent fodder for goats. The achene fruits (hips) of Rosa multiflora (referred to as "Eijitsu" or "Rosae fructus") are used to make a tea and in traditional medicine historically and in modern clinical practice to treat constipation.