Multiflora Rose (Rosa multiflora). This prickly, arching shrub with 7 to 9 leaflets per leaf was originally introduced to Hunterdon County as a "living fence." The red "berries" are known as "hips" and contain many small seeds. Birds also like to take cover in these pricker bushes which were brought from Asia and spread like wildfire, invading fields throughout Hunterdon County and out-competing much of the native vegetation. Multiflora rose is an excellent example of the environmental damage which can result from the introduction of non-native species. |
