Invasive Plant Species

An invasive species is an organism that causes ecological or economic harm in a new environment where it is not native. Invasive species can impact our agricultural crops and native habitats.

After learning how to identify different invasive species you will recognize them locally.


How you can Help

  • Do: research your problematic plant/pest 

  • Do: learn about common invaders (List below)

  • Do: avoid Exotic Pets (& don't dump them)

  • Don't: assume your work is done.

  • Don't: help invasive hitchhikers

  • Don't: think you can't make a difference 

Japanese Barberry, a common invasive landscaping shrub, found in protected State Park lands


Some Local Invasive Plants & Tips to Remove Them

  • Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii)*

  • Burning Bush (Euonymus alatus)*

  • Callery or Bradford Pear (Pyrus calleryana ‘Bradford’)*

  • English Ivy (Hedera helix)*

  • Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata) Info & Removal Tips

  • Japanese Barberry (Berberis thunbergii)*

  • Japanese Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) Plant Conservation Alliance Info

  • Russian & Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia & E. umbellata)*

  • Japanese Stiltgrass (Microstegium vimenium) Management Info from Piedmont MG

  • Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima)*

*Fact Sheets and others found at PA DCNR Invasive Plant Website


Resources