MSU Extension

A Field Identification Guide to Invasive Plants in Michigan's Natural Communities is intended to help readers identify key invasive species early so that a rapid response can be initiated while successful treatment is still likely.

The invasion of non-native, invasive plants is one of the greatest current threats to Michigan’s native biodiversity and their impacts are wide-ranging. A small fraction of plants that have been brought to Michigan but evolved elsewhere become invasive. Once established, they are aggressive competitors that spread rapidly, often dominating an ecosystem and reducing native diversity dramatically. They hinder management goals in our native forests, grasslands, wetlands and dunes, by displacing native species and altering ecosystem processes – this, in turn threatens habitat for many wildlife species. Invasive species heed no jurisdictional boundaries and therefore are of concern to everyone. One of the most effective strategies to reduce their threat is to spot invasive species just as they are getting established at a new site, before they become widespread.

An invaluable resource for professionals and amateurs alike, A Field Guide to Invasive Plants of Aquatic and Wetland Habitats for Michigan includes photos and descriptions of 47 invasive plant species. Aquatic and wetland species are included, along with a number of upland species that commonly venture into wetland habitats.

The guide is organized into two major sections: a pictorial key and species accounts. Species accounts include common and scientific names, photographs, legal restrictions where applicable, a brief description of each plant’s characteristics, habitat information, dispersal modes and the best times for survey. The guide also includes an introductory section with monitoring guidance.