Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Inspect the new growth for red, broom like clusters.
- Look closely at the undersides of curled leaves for tiny insects.
- Check nearby roses for similar symptoms.
Likely causes
Rose Rosette Disease
Most likelyHow to tell: Look for red, distorted growth and a cluster of stems known as a witch's broom. The leaves will appear curled, stunted, and unusually red.
What to do: There is no cure for this virus. You must dig up the entire plant, including the roots, and dispose of it in the trash. Do not compost infected material.
Aphid infestation
PossibleHow to tell: Check the undersides of the leaves for tiny green or black insects. They suck sap, causing the leaves to curl and twist as they grow.
What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.
When to worry
If you see witch's broom growth, it is likely Rose Rosette Disease and you should remove the plant immediately. Minor curling from aphids is manageable and not fatal.
Stopping it coming back
Keep your roses healthy and avoid planting them too close together to improve airflow. Monitor for mites, which carry the virus, and prune away any suspicious growth early.
Not sure which one it is? Photograph your multiflora rose.
This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
Questions people ask
- Can I prune off the curled parts?
- If it is Rose Rosette Disease, pruning will not stop the virus from spreading through the plant. It is best to remove the whole plant.
- Will my other roses get this?
- Yes, the eriophyid mites can carry the virus to nearby roses. Keep a close eye on all your rose bushes.
More problems with Multiflora rose
Back to the Multiflora rose guide
This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.