Invasive Exotic Plants
An invasive-exotic plant species is an introduced species that has been shown to displace the native vegetation by out-competing native species. Without the limiting factors that normally keep invasive plants under control in their native homes (diseases and insects), they overwhelm and displace existing native vegetation to form dense, single-species stands that dominate and alter the original natural community.
- View invasive exotic plant species
- Discover the invasive status of non-native plants in Florida
- See a list of exotic pest plants
Prevent the Spread of Invasives
By choosing to plant a garden with native plants, you will prevent the spread from your yard to other natural areas. At the same time, you conserve water, energy, time, and money, as well as reduce or eliminate the need for harmful pesticides and herbicides. There are a wide variety of native plants and landscaping designs to choose from in creating the yard that is the most pleasing to you.
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Invasive Species to Avoid or Eliminate
If you spot any of these plants, contact a local conservation manager.
- Old World climbing fern | Lygodium microphyllum
- Brazilian pepper | Schinus terebinthifolius
- Melaleuca | Melaleuca quinquenervia
- Chinese tallow | Sapium sebiferum
- Tropical soda apple | Solarum viarum
- Water hyacinth | Eichhornia crassipes
- Australian pine | Casuarina equisetfolia
- Wild taro | Colocasia esculenta
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Why You Should Care
Once invasive plants take over our native plants, the result can be devastating:
- Florida’s natural biodiversity is destroyed
- Native plants eventually become permanently eliminated
- Animals that use native plants for food and habitat cannot make use of the non-native ones
- Aquatic invasive plants can harm fish habitats
- Boating, swimming, hiking, and other activities can be limited or impossible in areas overtaken with invasive exotic plants
- It costs billions of dollars to control invasive exotic plants, and it is usually very difficult to eradicate them completely
Adapted from the USDA Introduced, Invasive and Noxious Plants website