The list above was compiled by Invasive Plant Atlas. It details the names of invasive plants that are causing issues in Redwood National Park. Invasive plants can thrive and spread abundantly outside of their native ranges. Plants that are naturally destructive can be dramatically invasive in new habitats.
“Non-native invasive species are organisms that have been introduced by humans either purposely or by accident and that have become serious environmental pests. One reason for their success as pests is that they are typically introduced without the array of associated natural controls (herbivores, parasites, pathogens, predators) that occur in their native range. In addition to the great loss of biodiversity, habitat degradation and other ecological consequences, invasive species cause huge economic damages valued in billions of dollars annually and some pose a human health threat.” (Invasive Plant Atlas, 2015).
Invasive plants threaten native species and their habitats. Native species often have to compete with invasive plants for essential resources like sunlight, water, nutrients, soil and space (Invasive Plant Atlast, 2015). More often, invasive plants win this ecological battle due to vigorous growth, prolific reproductive capabilities and by promoting changes that favor their growth and spread (Invasive Plant Atlas, 2015). "Invasive plant species displace and alter native plant communities, impede forest regeneration and natural succession, change soil chemistry, alter hydrologic conditions, alter fire regimes, cause genetic changes in native plant relatives through hybridization and some serve as agents for the transmission of harmful plant pathogens." (Invasive Plant Atlas, 2015)
Cotoneaster pannosus Scotch broom