Throughout history, we have introduced several exotic plants to America for aesthetic or functional purposes. Some are beautiful, with alluring scents and elegant vines, but many of these charming plants have proven to be menaces. The Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council holds a list of invasive plants in Florida which they update yearly, but there are a few individuals who have made quite the reputation for themselves. Below are five of the most invasive plants in Florida today:
Brazilian Pepper
A native of Brazil and Paraguay, this shrub-like tree was first brought to Florida during the 19th century and has since expanded across south Florida into the central region of the state. It matures to grow between 15 to 30 feet in height and has been named the most widespread invasive species in Florida, exceeding more than 700,000 acres.
Australian Pine
Despite its name, the Australian Pine is not a pine at all. This Australia native was brought to America in the 1880’s in attempt to provide windbreaks along the shore, but its shallow roots made it more of a hazard than a benefit. Hurricanes and heavy storms uprooted them, making Mother Nature’s catastrophes even more disastrous as they toppled over, blocking stream flows and causing issues with erosion on our beaches. They are now illegal to plant in Florida.
Old World Climbing Fern
Another plant of Australian origins, the Old World Climbing Fern is the Napoleon of invasive species. It was brought to the United States in 1985 and has been crawling across Florida at a rapid pace ever since. It clings to trees where it smothers growing branches. It’s also a fire hazard, making it easy for wildfires to crawl up its vines and into surrounding trees, feeding the flames.
Melaleuca
Melaleuca is originally from—you guessed it—Australia. It was originally introduced by plane to soak up the Everglades and make it more suitable for human habitation, but that plan quickly backfired. As it turns out, Melaleuca reproduces at a hare’s rate and is highly flammable. The plant has quadrupled its numbers in the last twelve years as it stretches across southwest Florida, covering half a million acres. It is now prohibited by the Department of Environmental Protection.
Japanese Honeysuckle
The Japanese Honeysuckle is a well-known plant with a warm reputation among many. Its sweet aroma and flavorful nectar makes it a favorite among children, but it has a parasitic nature, strangling other plants as it stretches across shrubs and trees. The plant grows stronger as it ages, developing a thick and sturdy stem that often steals water from other trees and plants.
For a full list of Florida’s invasive plants, read the 2015 List of Invasive Plant Species in Florida.