Because the disease is systemic, it can only be spread by grafting infected plant tissue onto uninfected tissue. Heat therapy programs for root stocks are effective in controlling this virus. Although rare, this disease is passed via infected root stocks, commonly R. multiflora . Rose Rosette is characterized by three stages of development, occurring over two or three seasons. The first stage is rapid, vigorous growth characterized by unusually dense formation of prickles on stems and canes.
Canes appear overly large and purple or deep red in color.
New leaves appear distorted and crinkled, often purple or deep red. When leaf buds open, they are distorted or fail to fully open, giving an appearance of rosettes. The third stage is characterized by spindly, chlorotic stem growth. The rose will most likely die the following winter. Although not positively identified as a viral disease, Proliferation has all the characteristics of being one.