RETIRED: Invasive and Problem Plant Control

Native vs. nonnative

A native species is any plant or animal that historically occurred and evolved in a given ecosystem and is in balance with other species in that ecosystem.

Nonnative species are intentionally or accidentally introduced into an ecosystem where they did not evolve, but they do not necessarily interrupt natural ecosystem processes.

What is an “invasive” plant?

"Invasive" plants come from other watersheds, other regions, or other continents. In a new landscape, they often have no natural controls, such as insects and other animals that eat them. Invasive plants can outcompete native plants and, in time, can take over as the dominant plant in an area, disrupting the natural balance of the plant community. Invasive plants can also outcompete crops and livestock forage, reducing economic productivity.

What is a “nuisance” plant?

Nuisance plants are native to the local landscape but still can cause problems. For instance, poison ivy is native to Missouri but can grow in dense patches that are difficult to pass through and can cause problems for people who are allergic to it.

What is meant by “aggressive”?

Aggressive plants can be native or nonnative. They are termed “aggressive” because they spread quickly and often overrun and push other plant species out of an area. Examples include musk thistle and sericea lespedeza in livestock pastures, Callery pears (such as Bradford pear) that take over open grasslands, and bush honeysuckles that take over woodlands.