Invasive Plant Factsheet

This Asian native was introduced to North America in 1763 and has become a popular landscape tree with its colorful flowers and interesting fruit. Unfortunately, it escapes from cultivation and naturalizes in a variety of environmental conditions. It is especially troublesome in warmer climates and is considered as invasive in natural areas in both Arlington County and the City of Alexandria.
Native Alternatives
Summer-blooming replacements:
- Magnolia virginiana (Sweetbay Magnolia)
- Oxydendum arboreum (Sourwood)
Spring-blooming replacements:
- Aesculus pavia (Red Buckeye)
- Chionanthus virginicus (Fringetree)
- Cornus alternifolia (Pagoda Dogwood)
- Cornus florida (Flowering Dogwood)






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