Gardening is a rewarding hobby that allows us to connect with nature, beautify our spaces, and support local ecosystems. But not all plants are created equal—some can wreak havoc on the environment by spreading uncontrollably and outcompeting native species. Unfortunately, many invasive plants are still widely sold in nurseries and planted unknowingly by well-meaning gardeners.

To help you make smarter choices for your garden, I consulted with gardening pros and ecologists to identify nine invasive plants they wish everyone would stop planting this year. These plants may look appealing, but their impact on biodiversity and ecosystems can be devastating. Let’s dig into why these plants are problematic and what alternatives you can choose instead.

1. English Ivy (Hedera helix)

Why It’s Problematic:

English ivy is notorious for smothering trees, shrubs, and even entire forest floors. Its dense growth blocks sunlight, kills native vegetation, and weakens tree trunks by harboring pests and diseases.

What to Plant Instead:

  • Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia): A native vine with stunning fall color that supports wildlife without becoming invasive.
  • Clematis (Clematis spp.): Beautiful flowering vines that won’t choke out other plants.

2. Japanese Barberry (Berberis thunbergii)

Why It’s Problematic:

This popular landscaping shrub forms dense thickets that crowd out native plants. Even worse, it creates ideal habitats for ticks, increasing the risk of Lyme disease.

What to Plant Instead:

  • Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata): A native shrub with bright red berries that attract birds.
  • Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius): Offers vibrant foliage and flowers while supporting pollinators.

3. Kudzu (Pueraria montana var. lobata)

Why It’s Problematic:

Known as “the vine that ate the South,” kudzu grows up to a foot per day, engulfing everything in its path—trees, power lines, buildings—you name it.

What to Plant Instead:

  • Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans): A fast-growing native vine with showy orange flowers that attract hummingbirds.
  • Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata): Another native option with unique blooms and edible fruit.

4. Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria)

Why It’s Problematic:

Though admired for its striking purple spikes, purple loosestrife invades wetlands, displacing native aquatic plants and disrupting habitats for fish, birds, and amphibians.

What to Plant Instead:

  • Blue Vervain (Verbena hastata): A native plant with similar purple blooms that thrives in moist soils.
  • Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis): Attracts hummingbirds and adds vibrant color to wet areas.

5. Bamboo (Phyllostachys spp.)

Why It’s Problematic:

While bamboo might seem like a great privacy screen, certain varieties spread aggressively through underground rhizomes, taking over yards and neighboring properties.

What to Plant Instead:

  • American Holly (Ilex opaca): Provides year-round greenery and privacy without invasive tendencies.
  • Arborvitae (Thuja spp.): A reliable hedge plant that stays contained.

6. Bradford Pear (Pyrus calleryana)

Why It’s Problematic:

Once prized for its white spring blossoms, the Bradford pear has become a nightmare due to its weak structure (branches break easily) and ability to crossbreed with other pears, creating thorny thickets.

What to Plant Instead:

  • Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.): A small tree with beautiful spring blooms, edible berries, and great fall color.
  • Redbud (Cercis canadensis): A native alternative with pink-purple flowers and sturdy branches.

7. Periwinkle (Vinca minor)

Why It’s Problematic:

Periwinkle’s glossy leaves and charming blue flowers mask its aggressive nature. Once established, it forms a dense mat that chokes out native groundcovers and wildflowers.

What to Plant Instead:

  • Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense): A low-growing native groundcover with heart-shaped leaves.
  • Creeping Phlox (Phlox stolonifera): Adds color and texture without spreading uncontrollably.

8. Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii)

Why It’s Problematic:

Despite attracting butterflies, this shrub spreads rapidly via seeds, invading natural areas and competing with native plants that provide better long-term habitat for pollinators.

What to Plant Instead:

  • Milkweed (Asclepias spp.): Essential for monarch butterflies and supports other pollinators.
  • Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis): A native shrub with unique spherical flowers loved by bees and butterflies.

9. Chinese Wisteria (Wisteria sinensis)

Why It’s Problematic:

With its cascading lavender blooms, Chinese wisteria is undeniably beautiful—but it’s also highly invasive, climbing and strangling trees, fences, and structures.

What to Plant Instead:

  • American Wisteria (Wisteria frutescens): A less aggressive native variety with equally stunning flowers.
  • Carolina Jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens): A vigorous climber with fragrant yellow blooms that won’t take over your yard.

Final Thoughts

Invasive plants may seem harmless at first glance, but their environmental impacts can be far-reaching and long-lasting. By choosing native or non-invasive alternatives, you can create a garden that not only looks beautiful but also supports local ecosystems and promotes biodiversity.

As someone who has accidentally planted an invasive species before (hello, periwinkle!), I understand how easy it is to make mistakes. The key is to educate ourselves and make informed decisions moving forward. So next time you’re browsing the nursery, think twice about those tempting but troublesome plants—and opt for options that will benefit both your garden and the planet. Happy gardening!