Japanese Knotweed – Fallopia japonica

Synonyms: Reynoutria japonica, Polygonum cuspidatum  What is it? Also known as Mexican bamboo, Fleeceflower, Japanese Polygonum or Huzhang, and many other names, the Japanese Knotweed is a shrub-like semi-woody perennial plant native to East Asia known for its resilience, and attractive bamboo-like stems with large broad leaves and clusters of flowers.  First introduced to NorthContinue reading “Japanese Knotweed – Fallopia japonica”

Purple Loosestrife – Lythrum Salicaria

What is it? If there is any invasive species Canadians may want to keep, it is the purple loosestrife. One of the more beautiful invasive species, the purple loosestrife is appropriately named for the colourful plumes of pinkish-purple flowers blooming throughout summer. While eye-catching, the purple loosestrife is not just a pretty bloom; it wasContinue reading “Purple Loosestrife – Lythrum Salicaria”

Garlic Mustard – Alliaria petiolata 

What is it?  Garlic mustard, sometimes called hedge garlic, poor man’s mustard, garlic root, and many other names, is an invasive biennial herb native to Europe. As expected from its name, all parts of this plant give off a distinctive garlic scent. It was introduced to North America during the 1800s as a culinary herbContinue reading Garlic Mustard – Alliaria petiolata 

Norway Maple – Acer platanoides

What is it? The Norway maple is an invasive deciduous tree native to Eurasia, the hardwood of which is commonly used in furniture and other products. Music lovers may be interested to know it may have been one of the woods used to produce the famous Stradivari violins! First introduced to North America in theContinue reading “Norway Maple – Acer platanoides”