Are all non-native species invasive?

Not all non-native plant species are invasive. In fact, 31% of plants in New England are non-native, but 10% are considered invasive.  Invasive species are non-native species that have certain characteristics that allow them to quickly overpopulate, such as:

  • Growing and reproducing rapidly
  • Leafing out earlier and retaining leaves longer than native species, allowing them to gather more nutrients
  • Dispersing prolifically, either by seeds or clonally
  • Tolerating a wide range of environmental conditions

Show All Answers

1. What is an invasive plant?
2. What is a native plant?
3. Are all non-native species invasive?
4. Why are invasive plants a problem?
5. What can I do about invasive plants in Weston?