Kudzu. Tree of Heaven. Purple Loosestrife. For many of you, just reading those name sent a shiver down your spine. Why? Because these living menaces are known as invasive plants and they will  mercilessly strangle the life out of native landscapes if given  even half a chance. To prevent non-native species from running amok, we suggest these native species which make great substitutes and which are just as beautiful and blessedly tame compared to their savage counterparts.

Just as exotic pets can wreak havoc on local animal populations, so too can non-native Plant species overwhelm native ecosystems when left unchecked.  This is because invasive species typically grow much faster and have fewer natural predators than their native neighbors so they can take over terrain seemingly overnight.

Despite their nasty monopolizing ways, many of these non-native plants are quite beautiful and so we might find ourselves wanting a clipping of wisteria or honeysuckle for our own gardens.

Resist the temptation! 

Instead of risking the complete hostile take over of your garden, why not grow plants with all of the benefits but with a lot more restraint? Here’s our suggestions:

Wisteria 

That style, that grace, that fragrance! Who can resist the siren song of summer wisteria? This fast growing beauty is dream of flower power and aroma, but like every plant on this list it has murderous streak. Japanese and Chinese Wisteria won’t hesitate to smother your beloved shade trees with their thick, relentless vines forever seeking sunlight. Thankfully the western varieties are just a lovely and fragrant but with the manners to grow to reasonable heights without killing off their neighbors.

Honeysuckle

How many summer afternoons have we whiled away as children sipping the sweet nectar of wild honeysuckle? Our memories of this aromatic vine may be sweet ones, but make no mistake, Lonicera japonica is an ecological nightmare. That’s why we suggest choosing its kinder, gentler cousin Lonicera sempervirens. Not only is this version less likely to take hostage everything living thing you hold dear, it is a riot of tropical colors and a very popular hangout for hummingbirds. Win-win!

Some other flowering vines which boast a conservative habit and boundless beauty are Jessamine and Trumpet vine.

English Ivy is another popular plant which ran run wild at a moment’s notice. If you love the texture, foliage interest and handsome carpet of ivy, you’ll love our Tiarella! It’s lovely and mild-mannered with all of the handsome foliage you adore without a penchant for infestation.

Want to learn more about Invasive Plants? Check this great resource! http://www.usna.usda.gov/Gardens/invasives.html

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