Not all wild roses have the mites. I don't know how many states have Rose Rosette disease, but it is a serious problem. I have seen nurseries selling infected roses. I have it my yard now....so am afraid I will lose several of my favorite roses. There are many sources on the internet about it. Ann Peck is considered to be the premier expert and her web book contains a wealth of information: http://www.rosegeeks.com/index.htm For a shorter read, you can try this brief explanation: http://www.forestryimages.org/browse/detail.cfm?imgnum=0016232 I was excited to think I had "wild roses" on my property! If only I had known back then. I have multiflora bushes that are 20 or 30 feet tall and have been fighting losing battle for years..... I also want to mention that Round Up drift can cause similar damage to roses....as I have accidentally gotten it on a few roses several years ago even though I thought I was being careful. Here is a link that might be useful: multiflora

I have a couple volunteers showing up in my yard that at least I know aren't Rosa multiflora. I've been eagerly awaiting for them to flower so I have a better chance of telling what they are. I'm linking to an article at a site you might enjoy since the writer sounds like she's into these and knowledgeable too. I do like native roses, but have much more to learn about them. -- Lori Here is a link that might be useful: The Native Roses of North America at wildlifegardeners.org

Any of the roses are going to produce "rose hips" (the fruit). The quality of them for any purpose is going to vary (from individual plant to plant as well as species). Rosa cannina is NOT a native US plant. If you have any places that you feel free to wander, I'd just wander about in Sept/October and see what you find. No rose hip is going to be toxic (by nature), though the amount of vitamin C will vary. Here is a link that might be useful: Rose Hips

I can sympathize with you on the rose rosette. I have lost two Belinda’s dreams a eutin and now I am going to have to dig out my old blush climber. Once the virus gets in your yard, it is not good and the sad thing is that you didn’t do anything to cause it and you can’t do anything to cure it