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| Invasive Plants: Frequently Asked Questions |
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What is an invasive plant?
An invasive plant is one that grows beyond its natural range
and moves into an area, overwhelming the native plants and
becoming
the dominant species.
According to Executive Order 13112, signed on February 3,
1999 and establishing the National Invasive Species Council,
an "invasive species" (including plants) is defined as an
alien species whose introduction does or is likely to cause
economic or environmental harm or harm to human health.
What threats do invasive exotic plants pose to our native plant communities?
- Displace native species: Invasive plants threaten 2/3rds of all endangered plant and animal species.
- Reproduce rapidly: This trait excludes nearly all other plants, thereby severely reducing biodiversity
- Hybridize with natives and alter their genetic makeup
- Support other non-native plants, animals, and pathogens
- Change the fundamental ecosystem processes such as the frequency of wildfires, availability of water and nutrients, and the rate of soil erosion.
Why are invasive plants found in our
area?
Most invasive plants were first introduced into
North America on purpose. Usually the invasive nature of the
plant was unknown before it was introduced, but without the
diseases or pests that would have kept the plants in check
where they naturally occurred, the plants were able to proliferate
and become invasive.
Here in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, where Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve is located, invasive species are spreading because of development and fragmentation of natural areas. Invasive plants seem to prefer areas where there has been soil disturbance. Depending on the species, invasives are easily spread by wind, animals, water or people.
What can I do to prevent the spread of invasive exotic plants?
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