Gardeners appreciate robust plants that thrive without constant attention and grow rapidly. However, some plants can be overly aggressive, leading to environmental issues. Justine Kandra, a horticulturalist at the Kemper Center for Home Gardening at Missouri Botanical Garden, warns that invasive plants can spread rapidly and displace native species, harming insects, birds, and other wildlife. These invasive plants propagate through various means like seeds, stems, roots, and bird-dispersed fruits, posing a significant threat.
Amanda Bennett, Vice President of Horticulture and Collections at Atlanta Botanical Garden, emphasizes the alarming rate at which invasive plants spread and the concerning fact that they are still sold in garden centers. It’s crucial to be aware of which plants are considered invasive in your region, as this designation can vary between locations. To identify and handle invasive species, seek guidance from your local university’s cooperative extension program or the department of natural resources and conservation.
Expert advice from Justine Kandra and Amanda Bennett highlights the importance of avoiding planting commonly available invasive species like the Mimosa Tree, Sweet Autumn Virginsbower, English Ivy, Chinese Privet, and Bradford Pear. These plants can have detrimental effects on ecosystems and outcompete native flora. It’s essential to choose native alternatives to preserve biodiversity and support local wildlife.
The Bradford pear tree, once thought to be a desirable addition to landscapes, has proven to be problematic due to various reasons. According to Bennett, its smelly flowers, weak wood, and tendency to cross-pollinate with native species have led to the crowding out of native plants in some areas. To combat this issue, some states like South Carolina have initiated programs offering incentives, such as a “bounty,” to exchange native trees for existing Bradford pears.
As an alternative to planting Bradford pears, consider the following options:
Common Periwinkle (Vinca minor)
This popular groundcover features evergreen foliage with trailing stems that root along the nodes as they spread across the ground. While its tubular lavender-blue flowers are attractive, Bennett warns that it can become invasive in certain regions.
Heavenly Bamboo (Nandina domestica)
Also known as heavenly bamboo or sacred bamboo, this woody shrub boasts colorful evergreen leaves and showy fruit that birds find appealing, aiding in seed dispersal. Despite its drought and shade tolerance, Kandra notes that its invasive nature can lead to the displacement of native species. There are non-invasive compact cultivars available, so select carefully based on the plant description.
Chinese Wisteria (Wisteria sinensis)
Gardeners are often drawn to the lush, purple cascading flowers of this woody vine. However, Kandra warns that its long lifespan and vigorous growth can reach heights of 40 feet, potentially harming trees and shrubs while altering forest ecosystems. Consider opting for the American wisteria (Wisteria frutescens) as a less invasive alternative with similar lilac-purple flower clusters.
Porcelain Berry (Ampelopsis brevipedunculata)
This vine, also known as porcelain berry or porcelain vine, produces pinkish-purple-blue berries on a robust, tendril-climbing structure resembling wild grapevines. Bennett cautions that it can grow up to 25 feet tall and is favored by birds, contributing to its invasive spread.
Giant Reed Grass (Arundo donax)
Featuring a tropical or bamboo-like appearance, this perennial grass has been utilized for ornamental purposes and erosion control. However, Bennett highlights its invasive tendencies, particularly in the Lower South region.
Consider these alternatives to the Bradford pear tree to maintain a diverse and balanced ecosystem in your landscape. For more information, refer to the original article on Southern Living.
