This low shrub from Japan has had widespread ornamental use in Ky. after 1950 (Davies 1955; M), and it has often escaped. B. thunbergii does not seem to be increasing much in this state. However, its moderate shade-tolerance and deer-resistance has allowed it to prosper locally in more northeastern states. It has been reported from almost all counties of Ohio (SE). The European B. vulgaris L. appears to have had very little use in the state, with no evidence of naturalization, but it became abundant in northern regions before extensive eradication during 1920-40 due to the wheat rust that it supports. B. thunbergii is immune to the rust (as reviewed by Y).