Multiflora rose occurs throughout the eastern half of the United States and in Washington and Oregon. It tolerates a wide range of soil, moisture and light conditions and is able to invade fields, forests, prairies, some wetlands and many other habitats. Multiflora rose grows aggressively and produces large numbers of fruits (hips) that are eaten and dispersed by a variety of birds. Dense thickets of multiflora rose exclude most native shrubs and herbs from establishing and may be detrimental to nesting of native birds. It is against Indiana State Law to plant any variety of Rosa multiflora without a permit issued by the division director (IC 14-24-12-5). Note – do not buy, sell, or plant multiflora rose.
In 100 Years of Change in the Distribution of Common Indiana Weeds by William and Edith Overlease (2002) reported that multiflora rose was not recorded in Indiana in 1899 (Coulter’s Catalogue of Indiana Plants); however, in 1940 (Deam’s Flora) multiflora rose was recorded in Jefferson County in 1933. In 2002, Overlease noted that multiflora rose had spread in all 92 counties in Indiana. Overlease noted that it “was formerly much used for wildlife and conservation planting and for natural hedges, which accounts for much of its spread throughout the state.”