Invasive Plant Factsheet
These Asian natives were introduced in the 1860s for their hardiness, fast growth, and adaptability and are still sold as shade and windbreak trees. Their quickly developing fruits can be dispersed by wind away from landscape plantings, and grasslands and stream banks are vulnerable to infestation. The trees are classified as invasive in 25 states, including Virginia, and are locally prolific.
Native Alternatives
- Acer rubrum (Red Maple)
- Betula nigra (River Birch)
- Carpinus caroliniana (American Hornbeam)
- Celtis occidentalis (Common Hackberry)
- Chionanthus virginicus (Fringetree)
- Cornus alternifolia (Pagoda Dogwood)
- Cornus florida (Flowering Dogwood)
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Chinese & Siberian Elms (Ulmus parviflora & U. pumila)
