Native Plants and Resources
Invasive Plants
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 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, 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:
- Learn more about invasive plants.
- Remove invasive plants from your landscape.
- Prevent new invasions by minimizing soil disturbance and bare soil.
- Plant native flora.
- Assist with invasive removal in natural areas (BHWP's Weed Patrol).
- Join local conservation organizations.
- Promote regional awareness.
Invasive Plant Information Sheets
Additional Resources:
DCNR Invasive Exotic Plant Management Tutorial for Natural Lands Managers
Ecology & Management of Invasive Plants Program – Cornell University
Mid-Atlantic Exotic Pest Plant Council
Invasive Plants of the Eastern United States: Identification and Control
New Jersey Invasive Species Strike Team
Weeds Gone Wild: Alien Plant Invaders of Natural Areas (Plant Conservation Alliance)
US Fish and Wildlife Service: Managing Invasive Plants
Online Publications:
