Category Archives: Invasive Plants

Invasive Plant Factsheet: Periwinkle (Vinca Minor)

Posted on April 6, 2020 by

2020 Invasive Plant Factsheet: Periwinkle (Vinca minor)

Unfortunately still commonly sold as a ground cover, this trailing vine can escape cultivation and spread rapidly into natural areas. It is classified as invasive throughout the eastern United States, including Arlington and Alexandria. Continue reading →

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Invasive Plant Factsheet: Five-Leaved Akebia/ Chocolate Vine (Akebia quinata)

Posted on March 23, 2020 by

2020 Invasive Plant Factsheet: Five-Leaved Akebia/ Chocolate Vine (Akebia quinata) 
Originally from eastern Asia, this vine was introduced in 1845 as an ornamental plant. It has now been found to be infesting forest habitats where it can grow from 20 to 40 feet in a season, smothering native understory plants. Continue reading →

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Choking Hazard: English Ivy Removal Campaign

Posted on March 18, 2020 by

Choking Hazard: English Ivy Removal Campaign
A follow-up on our article on Invasive Plants: English Ivy from Monday.

Learn about the campaigned launched in 2012 by the Tree Stewards and Master Naturalist titled “Choking Hazard: English Ivy as a Threat to Virginia’s Trees.”
The purpose of the campaign is to educate residents about Hedera helix (English ivy), in particular the damage it causes and strategies for eradication. Continue reading →

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Invasive Plant Factsheet: English Ivy (Hedera helix )

Posted on March 16, 2020 by

2020 Invasive Plant Factsheet: English Ivy (Hedera helix) 

One of the most popular ground covers in North America, this non-native climbing vine was introduced by early European colonists. Its vigorous growth creates an “ivy desert” as it chokes out other plants on the ground, and it poses a threat to both buildings and trees as it grows up vertical surfaces. Continue reading →

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