What is an Invasive Plant?
Invasive plant species are plants introduced from outside of an ecosystem with characteristics that help them dominate and limit the diversity of species within the invaded area. Their threat lies in an ability to spread aggressively and reproduce prolifically, easily out-competing native plants for light, space and nutrients.
Introduction of an invasive plant species can quickly result in a reduction of native plant species and of habitat for native wildlife. Once established, invasive plants are extremely difficult to control and restoration of the natural ecosystem can require large amounts of financial and labor resources. Early detection and rapid response is the best and most cost effective approach to controlling invasive plant species.
https://pawccd.org/uploads/3/4/8/2/34827270/common_invasive_plants.pdf
Resources on Invasive Plants
The Massachusetts Prohibited Plant List
Pennsylvania Field Guide Common Invasive Plants in Riparian Areas
