Invasive species in New England.

By Andrew Wernik

Invasive species are non-native species that can quickly take over habitat. Due to lack of natural predators it can monopolize an area for space, food, sunlight and, water. Putting native species at risk. 

Alliaria petiolata is abiennial flowering plant of the mustard family. A native to Europe, central Asia and, Northern Africa. First introduced in North America in the mid 1800’s for culinary use. Due to lack of natural predators it has quickly spread in forest and wetlands. Plant should be pulled or cut to ground in spring.

Berberis thunbergii one of the widespread invasive plants in New England. First seen in Boston in the late 1800’s. It lives along field edges and in open forests. Southern New England has been hit hard by the plant. Dense areas of the plants prevents anything but Berberis thunbergii from growing. Pull out plants and/or seedlings.

Iris pseudacorusa native of Europe, first planted in the 1800’s to add color to  streams and ponds. A very widespread plant, it has been found in most of the United States and parts of Canada. It quickly takes over other native Iris species. Being the only wild yellow Iris it is easily distinguished from native species. Pull out the plants and roots.

Cynanchum rossicum is a flowering plant of the milkweed family. Native to Europe. Brought over for ornamental reasons in the late 1800’s. Taking over in grassland and endangering the native bird and insect life. Roots must be dug out before it goes to seed and destroyed.

Amorpha fruticosa is found in the wild in most of the United states. It was introduced in Europe for ornamental reasons and became invasive. Quickly and aggressively replacing native plants.

Sources:

http://www.newfs.org/protect/invasive-plants/massachusetts-invasive-plant-list.htmlhttp://www.nps.gov/plants/