An invasive plant and/or noxious weed are those that take over an area. There are a lot of examples, and you may be growing some of them. Pampas grass and mint are two very good examples. I’ve seen mint travel under concrete several houses away from where it was originally planted.
These plants pose several problems. As mentioned above, they can take over large areas of land. Native plants may not have the ability to thrive when these plants spring up. Those that are already on the endangered species list are particularly vulnerable to this problem. Most areas with sensitive plant balances are tended by humans to remove the invasive plants, but it’s hard to reach all of them.
These plants can also take over your garden or lawn. Dandelions were brought here due to their food and medical benefits, but you won’t find many homeowners bragging about the dandelion population in their lawn. You’ll find them spraying weed killer on them.
Dandelions aren’t the only plants that have gone from cultivation to the wild. On one of our hiking trails, there is a large stand of fennel. These plants are approaching seven feet tall. Those who take care of the trail try to keep them mowed down, but they come back, often with additions to the family. Yes, fennel is a great food plant, and very useful in herbal remedies, but not on the hiking trail.
Another garden plant that has escaped is the castor bean. Knowing what I do about the plant, it’s not one I’d pick for a flower garden. However, many people like it and grow it. Unfortunately, it is also taking over uncultivated areas and creeping into our forests. This plant is worse than fennel when it comes to reproducing. Unlike fennel, it is not good to eat. It will kill you, and it won’t be pleasant about it.
There is something we should all do before we plant anything. Each state and many counties within the states have a list of plants they refer to as noxious or invasive. You can call the county agricultural department or look it up on-line. Even though the plants may be available at your local nursery, don’t plant anything on that list. It will protect the environment and make sure you have plenty of room in your garden for the plants you love.