While "naturalized" has several different meanings, from an ecological standpoint it is most often used to indicate whether a species can survive on its own outside of cultivation. There are plenty of non-native, naturalized plants that spread on their own but are not considered invasive. I know, you probably think I am splitting hairs here. But the difference between invasive and naturalized would be the harm to the ecosystem, which admittedly can be hard to prove.
In addition to the morphological or physiological characteristics of the plant itself, association with humans typically plays a big part in its success as an invader. For example, as Urban Pantheist notes in the profile above, Multiflora rose was extensively planted, in hedgerows and also along highways. There aren't too many other roses you see planted in such profusion (Rosa rugosa but that is another story). Along with the higher-than-average fruit production, due to the large clusters of flowers, that's a pretty big advantage.
I think it is also true that many garden roses are hybrids and produce very few seeds.
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timeasmymeasure
Multiflora rose
Date: 2006-06-17 04:37 am (UTC)In addition to the morphological or physiological characteristics of the plant itself, association with humans typically plays a big part in its success as an invader. For example, as Urban Pantheist notes in the profile above, Multiflora rose was extensively planted, in hedgerows and also along highways. There aren't too many other roses you see planted in such profusion (Rosa rugosa but that is another story). Along with the higher-than-average fruit production, due to the large clusters of flowers, that's a pretty big advantage.
I think it is also true that many garden roses are hybrids and produce very few seeds.