Q: Can you enlighten us on the pros and cons of this vine-like plant? We thought it might be a Cherokee Rose, but decided not.

A: It’s a multiflora rose – a thorny, devilish weed that grabs and stabs anyone passing by. Multiflora rose is native to Asia and was first introduced to America in 1866 as rootstock for grafting ornamental roses. During the 1900’s it was widely planted as a “living fence” for livestock control. It forms nearly impenetrable thickets that displace native plants. Bushes may reach a height of 5 to 10 feet. It grows well in many soil types and tolerates a wide range of environmental conditions.

My advice? Spray with glyphosate (Roundup, etc ) or triclopyr (Brush B Gon, etc) …or you’ll regret it!

See www.extension.iastate.edu/Publications/PM863.pdf