Beautiful Flowers That Are Surprisingly Invasive

Giant plant up to 20 feet tall with large leaves and white flowers. Its sap causes severe skin reactions, making it dangerous. Professional removal is recommended.

Giant Hogweed

Ornamental with fern-like leaves and pink flowers. It outcompetes native plants and contains a toxin harmful to dogs. Cut down and prevent seedling growth.

Mimosa Tree

Woody vine with lavender flowers, introduced in the early 1900s. It chokes trees and threatens native species. Requires repeated cutting and possible herbicide use for control.

Chinese Wisteria

Spreads rapidly through seeds and rhizomes, forming dense colonies. Considered invasive in some states due to aggressive growth. Dig up rhizomes repeatedly to eradicate.

Lily of the Valley

Fast-growing tree with compound leaves and strong odor when crushed. Forms dense thickets, displacing native plants. Pull up seedlings; professional removal for mature trees.

Tree of Heaven

European import known for rapid spread via winged seeds. Considered invasive in some areas, outcompeting native trees. Avoid planting; remove seedlings by hand.

Norway Maple

Woody vine with fragrant flowers, introduced as an ornamental. It crowds out native plants and spreads easily. Hand-pull or mow; additional control methods for large vines.

Japanese Honeysuckle

Ground cover or climber introduced from Europe, known for aggressive growth. Can damage structures and outcompete native groundcovers.

English Ivy

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