The radially symmetrical flowers are often borne singly. There are 5 sepals and 5 roundish petals, but in some species petals are absent. The stamens are numerous. The alternate leaves may be simple or compound and usually have stipules.

Roses are highly prized cultivated flowers, and many edible berries and fruits are in this family.Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, apples, pears, plums, cherries, peaches, apricots and quinces are examples.


These plants are found in swamps, pond edges, other wet places. The narrow leaves may be cylindrical or flat and the leaf base sheathes the stem. In some species leaf blades are absent. The small, greenish or whitish flowers are in heads, spikes or loose clusters and have 6, scale-like petals/sepals.