An invasive plant is typically described as being non-native and either intentionally or accidentally introduced to an area. But can a native species be invasive? Native invasive species are a hot topic in ecology and climate science. There is an argument to be made that some plants that have become problematic in or near their native ranges. Native Species vs. Invasive Species A native species is an indigenous plant that evolved in place and without human intervention. A non-native species is one that was moved to another area either on purpose or unintentionally by human activity. Not all non-native species are invasive. What marks a plant as invasive are these characteristics: For instance, garlic mustard is an invasive species settlers introduced in North America as a food and for its medicinal properties. It is harmful to the native ecosystem because it outcompetes native species and creates vast monocultures in woodland […]
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