Invasive Species
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Fall - Mile-a-minute vine
This annual plant gets its nickname from its rapid growth (up to 6 inches in a single day). A native of Asia, it arrived in Pennsylvania, probably in a shipment of holly seeds, in the 1930’s. Since then, it has spread to most states in the northeast, Ohio, and Oregon. It is believed at present it is found in only about 20% of its potential range, and thus could spread much more widely if not brought under control.
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Winter - Porcelain Berry
Porcelain berry overtakes other vegetation and can shade out native shrubs and trees. It can form thick monocultures which reduce species diversity and wildlife habitat.
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Spring - Lesser Celandine
Lesser Celandine is considered highly invasive, and in many states, nurseries are prohibited selling the plant. Its rapid growth early in the spring allows it to out-compete many native ephemerals. This has the effect overtime of allowing this invasive to become the predominant in the landscape.
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Summer - Bamboo
Bamboo can be an extremely invasive plant (most species we see are from Asia) that is VERY hard to control once it takes hold. Some species can even grow into structures and buildings through holes and cracks and cause structural damage. And, as with any invasive plant, bamboo degrades natural areas and displaces native plants that support our wildlife and pollinators.
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Fall - Mile-a-minute vine
This annual plant gets its nickname from its rapid growth (up to 6 inches in a single day). A native of Asia, it arrived in Pennsylvania in the 1930’s. Since then, it has spread to most states in the northeast, Ohio, and Oregon. Because of its ability to grow rapidly and smother native vegetation, mile-a-minute weed is considered a highly invasive species.