The Worst Invasive Plants in Florida

Florida is renowned for its diverse and unique ecosystem, featuring a wealth of native flora and fauna. However, alongside these native species, there are also invasive plants that have made their way into the state. Let's find out more about these invaders and what can be done to prevent the threat they pose to the delicate balance of the local environment.

Why Are Invasive Plants a Problem?

Native plants are those that exist naturally in a particular part of the world. Non-native plants come from elsewhere. Plant species are usually transferred to new areas by humans - sometimes intentionally and sometimes unintentionally.

Not all non-native plants are problematic. There are plenty of exotic plants that grow happily in Florida's backyards and landscapes without causing any issues for native plant communities or wildlife habitat. However, some of those exotic plants are designated as invasive species.

A plant fits the USDA's definition of an invasive plant if both:

• it is not native to the ecosystem in question
• its introduction is likely to cause environmental or economic harm or harm to human health

Invasive plant species can cause a variety of problems, including the following:

• extinction of local plants when introduced species compete for resources such as light, water and space
• reduction of biodiversity as loss of native habitat affects animals as well as plants in the native ecosystem
• introduction of new pests or diseases
• toxicity to local wildlife

Invasive Plants to Look Out For in your Florida Yard

Brazilian Peppertree

With its shiny green leaves and clusters of bright red berries, Brazilian peppertree looks a lot like a holly tree - so much so that it is sometimes called Christmasberry or Florida holly. The problem with this invasive tree, which was imported from South America in the 1840s, is that it quickly forms a dense canopy, shading out all other plants. This reduces biodiversity by creating a poor habitat for native species.

Brazilian peppertree is in the same family as poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac - so it could cause a similar allergic reaction. If you want to remove this plant from your property, take care. Cut down the whole plant and spray the stump with herbicide to prevent regrowth.

Brazilian peppertree is prohibited under Florida law. This means it is illegal to sell or transplant this invasive species. If you are looking for a similar native plant for your landscape, consider America, Dahoon or Yaupon holly, all of which are native to Florida.

Melaleuca

Melaleuca, also known as paperbark tree, is another non-native invasive plant that was introduced to Florida for landscaping use. Seeds were deliberately spread over the Everglades in the 1930s in the hope that this would help to dry up the area and reduce the number of mosquitoes!

Unfortunately, this exotic pest plant has now taken over hundreds of thousands of acres, altering water flow in the Everglades. It has also been found in a wide range of other Florida habitats, where it is displacing dozens of plant species and destroying wildlife habitat.

If you find this invasive tree on your property, it should be removed. Cut the tree down and spray the stump with a glysophate- or triclopyr- herbicide. Be aware that rainfall can wash herbicide away; try to spray when no rain is expected for the next 24 hours, or cover sprayed stumps with waterproof material to ensure the herbicide can take effect.

Chinese Tallow

Chinese tallow is an ornamental tree that was introduced to Florida from China in the late 1800s as a landscape plant. It has distinctive heart-shaped leaves, which turn a vibrant red during the fall months. Its fruit matures to show three large, white seeds that look like popcorn, hence the alternative name, popcorn tree.

Chinese tallow's aggressive growth rate means that it can quickly take over open areas, leaving no room for other plants to grow. Its seeds can be spread by birds or through waterways. Fallen leaves contribute to excess phosphorus, nitrates and other elements in Florida's waterways.

Like Brazilian peppertree, Chinese tallow is prohibited; it is illegal to sell, transport or plant it in Florida. If you find it in your landscape, remove it by cutting down the tree and spraying the stump with herbicide. Florida-friendly alternatives that will provide a natural habitat for beneficial pollinators include Eastern redbud, Red maple and Chickasaw plum.

Air Potato

Air potato is another invasive plant that has become a major concern in Florida. Native to Asia, it was first introduced to the state in the early 1900s as an ornamental plant. However, its vigorous growth and ability to reproduce rapidly have caused it to become a serious threat to natural ecosystems.

Air potato is a vine with heart-shaped leaves. It grows very quickly - as much as eight inches per day! It produces white tubers called bulbils, from which new plants can sprout.

To control air potato on your property, remove every part of the plant, especially the bulbils, to prevent new vines from growing. If possible, burn all parts of the plant. Your local landfill may be able to do this for you. Spray any remaining plants with herbicide in spring or summer. It is likely that you will need to repeat the application of herbicide during the growing season and perhaps even in subsequent years.

Japanese honeysuckle

Japanese honeysuckle is a fast-growing vine with fragrant, white flowers. It was imported from Asia to the USA for ornamental use. However, this invasive species quickly spread from the gardens where it had been planted.

Japanese honeysuckle grows so quickly and is so prolific that it can choke out existing native trees and shrubs, causing them to collapse completely. It can also create so much shade that native plants on the forest floor beneath the vine are unable to get the light they need to survive.

Japanese honeysuckle can be a challenge to eradicate. It's important to pull out all parts of the plant to prevent it from growing back. If you're looking for a Florida-friendly replacement vine, coral honeysuckle would be an excellent choice. This climbing vine has red, trumpet-shaped flowers that attract hummingbirds and other native pollinators. Check out our article on climbing plants for more information!

Further Information About Invasive Weeds

Other invasive plants to look out for on your property include Australian pine, Japanese climbing fern and camphor trees. For more information about any of these plants, and a complete list of problematic invasive plant species in Florida, see the UF/IFAS Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants' website.

If you need help removing any of these harmful plants, or if you'd like some garden design ideas with recommendations for attractive plant species native to Florida, don't hesitate to get in touch with your local landscaping company.

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