This guide is intended and designed to be used by both

homeowners and professional pesticide applicators.

Public and private land managers and other professionals

working in utilities, parks and conservation programs will

also find useful and educational information to aid in

identifying and controlling non-native invasive plants in

the Tampa Bay area. While there are more than 125 exotic

species identified by the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council

(EPPC) as Category I or II pest plants, the Invasive

Species Task Force of Hillsborough County, Florida, has

selected 20 especially troublesome plant species found in

the Tampa Bay region. This field guide provides the

information necessary to identify and chemically treat

pest plants and includes replacement suggestions for

replanting once the targeted plants are controlled.

The Florida EPPC regards Category I plants as: “Invasive

exotics that are altering native plant communities by

displacing native species, changing community structures

or ecological functions, or hybridizing with natives.”

Sixteen of the 20 species in this booklet are Category I

pest plants. The remaining four are Category II species—

plants on their way to becoming Category I because of

“increased abundance or frequency” in Florida plant

communities.

A non-native invasive is a plant from somewhere other

than Florida that spreads aggressively into natural areas.

All non-native plants are not invasive. They become

invasive when they outgrow and replace native plants in

natural plant communities.

Non-native invasive plants threaten our natural plant

communities and pose ecological and financial impacts.

Millions of dollars are spent each year to fight these pest

plants. Local, state and federal governments, farmers and

ranchers, and other organizations play a role in the

control of non-native invasive plants. Ecologically, these

plants change the composition of natural plant and

animal communities. Many animal species that co-exist

and evolve with native plant communities cannot readily

adapt to rapid changes made to their habitats by nonnative invasive species. Invasive plants deplete the soil of

nutrients and moisture, block sunlight to native plants,

prevent access to water (for animal species), deprive

animals of nesting areas and food sources, and provide

ideal conditions for yet other non-native species to invade.

Areas with non-native invasive species tend to become

monocultures (areas where one plant species dominates)

and greatly reduce habitat diversity.
Features of the Field Guide

4 Resources

Contact information of agencies and groups

supporting the control of non-native invasive pest

plants and encouraging native plant replacements.

5 Herbicide Application Techniques

This guide promotes three different treatment

techniques especially suited for homeowners and

professionals.

8 List of Herbicides

For the homeowner and the professional.

10 Plant Descriptions

Each of the 20 plants has:

Identifying characteristics

A brief botanical description; for example, leaf shape

and color, flower color, and fruits.

Color photographs

All the photographs in this guide were taken in the

Tampa Bay area!

Scientific and common name

The scientific name is in italics.

Habitat

A brief description of where the plant is found and

most likely to thrive.

Growth habits

How the plant spreads; for example, are the seeds

dispersed by birds or do the plants spread by roots?

Control methods

Tips on controlling and eradicating the plants.

Replacements

Florida native plant species are recommended.

47 The Invasive Species Task Force

What it is and how you can get involved.

48 Sources

Cover photo: Air potato in Hillsborough County

2
Plant List

10 Air potato and Air yam ........ Dioscorea spp.

12 Australian-pine

and Suckering

Australian-pine .................... Casuarina spp.

14 Brazilian pepper .................. Schinus terebinthifolius

16 Carrotwood tree .................. Cupaniopsis

anacardioides

18 Chinaberry tree ................... Melia azedarach

20 Chinese tallow tree,

Popcorn tree ........................ Sapium sebiferum

22 Cogon grass ......................... Imperata cylindrica

24 Guinea grass ........................ Panicum maximum

26 Japanese climbing fern and

Old World climbing fern ..... Lygodium spp.

28 Kudzu vine .......................... Pueraria montana

30 Lead tree, Jumbie bean ....... Leucaena leucocephala

32 Melaleuca, Punk tree........... Melaleuca quinquenervia

34 Mexican petunia .................. Ruellia tweediana

Mexican bluebell ................. R. brittoniana

Britton’s wild petunia

36 Rosary Pea, Crab’s eyes ....... Abrus precatorius

38 Skunk vine .......................... Paederia foetida

40 Torpedo grass,

Bullet grass .......................... Panicum repens

42 Tropical soda apple .............. Solanum viarum

Plants of Growing Concern:

44 Castor bean .......................... Ricinus communis

45 Camphor tree ...................... Cinnamomum camphora

46 Paper mulberry ................... Broussonetia

papyrifera 3
Invasive Species Task Force

Hillsborough County Parks,

Recreation and Conservation

Cockroach Bay Aquatic

Preserve, 3709 Gulf City Road,

Ruskin, Florida 33570

813-671-7754 or 813-672-7876

Tampa Bay Estuary Program

www.tbep.org

Southwest Florida Water

Management District

www.watermatters.org

800-423-1476, ext. 4537

Hillsborough County

Extension Service

hillsborough.extension.ufl.edu

Link to Florida’s County

Extension Service Offices:

www.ifas.ufl.edu/extension

813-744-5519

Florida Department of

Environmental Protection,

Bureau of Invasive Plant

Management

www.dep.state.fl.us/

 lands/invaspec

850-245-2809

Florida Exotic Pest Plant

Council

www.fleppc.org

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

southeast.fws.gov/ea/

 Fun_Facts/fun_index.html

University of Florida

Institute of Food and

Agricultural Sciences,

Center for Aquatic and

Invasive Plants

plants.ifas.ufl.edu

352-392-9613

U.S. Department of

Agriculture, Natural

Resources Conservation

Service

plants.usda.gov

Invasive and Exotic Species

of North America

www.invasive.org

Environmental

Protection Agency

www.epa.gov/oppt/labeling

www.epa.gov/owow/

 invasive_species/

Florida Native Plant Society

www.fnps.org

772-462-0000

Florida Plants Online

www.floridaplants.com

Resources

The Tampa Bay area has many resources available to assist

with controlling non-native plant species and replanting

native plants. Listed below are helpful names, numbers

and/or Web sites of agencies and groups.

Native Plant and Non-native Invasive Plant Information

Herbicide and Chemical Information

BASF Vegetation Management

www.vmanswers.com

UPM Corp.

www.vine-x.com

sales@vine-x.com

877-650-8463

www.roundup.com

www.dupont.com/ag/vm/

 products/escortxp.html

www.dowagro.com

www.ortho.com

4
Herbicide Application Techniques

Herbicide application is a control method in which a

herbicide is applied directly to the targeted nuisance

vegetation via one of several application techniques.

Although there are many effective treatment methods,

this field guide will describe three different application

techniques suitable for homeowners and professionals.

The three techniques are foliar, basal bark and cut-stump.

The foliar method involves the application of the herbicide directly to the leaves of the plant, while the basal

bark technique treats the bark of the plant at or near

ground level. The cut-stump method requires the plant to

be cut down and the herbicide applied immediately

following and directly to the cut surface of the stump.

This guide indicates the most effective application

technique(s) for each invasive plant species. Utilizing the

appropriate method greatly increases the effectiveness of

treatment and reduces the need for retreatment. However,

it is important to note that with the aggressive nature of

invasive plant species, repeated treatments are often

necessary depending on the type and extent of an

infestation, effectiveness of the herbicide, and proper

technique selection and application. (Treatments

presented in this guide indicate control techniques used

by Invasive Species Task Force participants.)

The most effective time to apply herbicides is during the

specific growing season of the plant being treated,

particularly before seeds are fully developed and dispersed

by wildlife. Generally, new vegetation is most vulnerable

to herbicides and most readily absorbs the chemical.

Please refer to the “Control” section of each species for

specific eradication tips.

Foliar Applications

This technique involves applying water-based herbicide

directly to the leaves and stems of a plant. Herbicides may

be applied to the foliage of the plant using handheld spray

bottles, pump sprayers and backpack sprayers. Wetting

agents (surfactants) may be added to the mix to further

enhance leaf coverage. This equipment is available at

home improvement stores, garden centers or by mail

order from companies specializing in gardening supplies.

For small areas, products with wick or wipe-on applicators work well. Foliar treatment of large infestations

utilizes power-driven ground sprayers with boom

5
attachments to ensure adequate coverage. It is important

to remember that when using the foliar method, the

herbicide may aerially drift and harm or kill non-target

plants. Be sure to follow instructions on the herbicide

label.

Basal Bark Applications

This technique consists of applying oil-based herbicides

directly onto the bark. Herbicides used in this method are

formulated to be absorbed through the bark of the tree.

Apply herbicide around circumference of the stem/trunk

up to 12 to 20 inches above the ground using a handheld

spray bottle or pump sprayer. Old or rough bark may

require more herbicide than smooth young wood. Spray to

wet, but not to the point of run-off. Wind drift is less of a

factor when basal bark spraying, but still should be a

consideration.

Cut-Stump Applications

The cut-stump method is most effective for plants prone to

resprouting. After mechanically cutting down the invasive

plant, the herbicide is painted, sprayed or squirted directly

onto the cut surface of the stump or stem on the circumference of the exposed cambium. The cambium is the layer

just inside the bark that provides the tree/plant with new

cells for growth. For smaller stems, simply coat the cut

stem(s). The stump should be cut as level as possible to

prevent herbicide run-off, and herbicide should be applied

immediately following the cut to increase herbicide

effectiveness—i.e. prevent resprouting. Be sure to remove

the sawdust from the stumps before treatment. Lowpressure equipment, such as handheld spray bottles, pump

sprayers or even a paintbrush, are appropriate tools for the

cut-stump technique.

Herbicide Application Tips

• Consult your county extension service (see Resources

on page 4) for more detailed information about best

practices. Using more is not better and can harm

desirable plants.

• Always read the product label before use. Before using

any herbicide or chemical, read the label carefully,

thoroughly understand all prohibitions and follow all

directions. Remember, the label is the law!

• Always wear recommended protective clothing and

equipment when handling herbicides.

6
• Buy the right amount for your needs. Some products

may not work well if stored for long periods of time. A

larger size might not be a good value if you can’t use it.

• Prevent harm to the environment. Chemicals that run

into ponds, creeks or other water can contaminate the

water and kill fish and other wildlife. When working

around water sources, be sure to use chemicals

approved and labeled for such use.

• Never pour lawn and garden products down a drain. If

you can’t use the entire product, pass it on to someone

who can. Contact your local Solid Waste Department

for your community household chemical collection

program.

• Use care when applying herbicides using spray

equipment. Protect and/or cover all non-target plants

from overspray or wind drift.

• The addition of a water-soluble dye can assist in tracking

whether spray drift has reached non-target plants. This

also helps determine complete coverage of target plants.

• When changing from a water-based mix to an oil-based

mix in a sprayer, run a small amount of oil through the

pumping system before filling with oil-based mix;

otherwise a white “sludge” will clog the sprayer.

• Consult your county extension service or native plant

nurseries for a list of native plants suitable for replacing

invasive non-native plants. This guide has provided

some suggestions.

• Do not wash work clothes with family laundry.

• Do not eat, drink, use tobacco products, or use the

bathroom while using herbicides.

• Keep children and pets away from herbicides and

treated areas.

Dilutions

• All dilutions of GarlonTM 4 applications (except foliar)

are made with oil. Brush B Gon® and Pathfinder IITM

may not need to be diluted.

• All dilutions of Rodeo®, Roundup®, Escort® XP,

Plateau®, GroundClear®, Arsenal®, GarlonTM 3A or

RenovateTM 3 are made with water. Always use clean

water in a herbicide mixture and mix granular

solutions in a bucket, not in the sprayer. Stir for several

minutes before transferring to sprayer.

7
WATER-BASED HERBICIDES (FOLIAR APPLICATIONS)

Chemical Name Product Name1 Comments

Glyphosate 53.8% Rodeo® May be applied in water, requires a surfactant.2

Glyphosate 41.0% Roundup® Super Concentrate Weed Discontinued; but still available.

& Grass Killer May not be applied in or over water.

Glyphosate 27.0% Roundup® Poison Ivy & Tough Brush May not be applied in or over water.

Killer Concentrate

Glyphosate 25.0% Roundup® Weed & Grass Killer Concentrate May not be applied in or over water.

Glyphosate 5.0% Ortho® GroundClear® Complete Vegetation May not be applied in or over water.

Imazapyr .08% Killer Concentrate (Formerly Triox®)

Imazapic 23.6% Plateau® May not be applied in or over water.

Imazapyr 28.7% Arsenal® May not be applied in or over water.

Metsulfuron Escort® XP Granular; mix in water, requires a surfactant.2

methyl 60.0% May be applied in or over water.

Triclopyr amine 8.0% Ortho® Brush B Gon® May not be applied in or over water.

Triclopyr amine 44.4% GarlonTM 3A or RenovateTM 3 May be applied in or over water per label.

8
WATER-BASED HERBICIDES (CUT-STUMP APPLICATIONS)

Imazapyr 28.7% Arsenal® May be applied to trees in standing water per

SLN label directions.

Triclopyr amine 44.4% GarlonTM 3A or RenovateTM 3 May be applied to trees in standing water. May

be applied in or over water per label.

OIL-BASED HERBICIDES (BASAL BARK AND CUT-STUMP APPLICATIONS)

Triclopyr ester 13.6% PathfinderTM II May not be applied in or over water.

Triclopyr ester 13.6% Vine-XTM Vine & Brush Control See Resources for Web site and phone number.

Packaged for easy application with brush

attached. May not be applied in or over water.

Triclopyr ester 61.6% GarlonTM 4 May not be applied in or over water.

This guide provides the most up-to-date and effective herbicides and treatment techniques for the non-native invasive

plants in this guide. Chemical companies are continually improving herbicides targeting non-native invasive species.

Listed here are some names of herbicide products available to the general public at home improvement stores, garden

centers or farm supply stores, as well as products marketed to professionals. This is not an exhaustive list; there are many

other products available. Always read the product label before use. Always use personal protective equipment (PPE).

1This list is not necessarily an endorsement by any of the parties involved with this field guide.

2Surfactant: Wetting agent that allows the chemical to “stick” to foliage rather than run off. 9
Fruits and leaves of Air

yam (right) are longer

than those of Air potato

(below). The fruits grow

in the leaf axils. They

have been placed on the

leaves in these photos to

show their shape, relative

to the leaf.

10
Dioscorea spp.

Air potato D. bulbifera

Air yam D. alata

Identifying Characteristics

Herbaceous vines with stems up to 60 feet or more in

length, twining counterclockwise and covering trees and

shrubs. Leaves are alternate (D. bulbifera) or opposite (D.

alata), heart-shaped, up to 8 inches or more in length;

bright or dark green in color. Aerial tubers or bulbils

(“potatoes”) are round, mostly smooth, but can be bumpy

or rough; form in the leaf axils. Bulbils range from pea to

golf ball to tennis ball size, but can grow to approximately

5 inches across. Some species, such as D. alata, produce

underground tubers. Flowers are rarely seen and are

small—in spikes to 4 inches long. Fruits are capsules with

partially winged seeds.

Note: Often confused with Kudzu, but leaf shape is

characteristic.

Habitat

Commonly found in residential areas, growing on fence

lines and trees, especially in shady areas. Found in vacant

lots, climbing high into trees and over the ground.

Invades a variety of habitats including wetlands,

pinelands, hammocks and even landfills.

Growth Habits

Reproduces prolifically from large numbers of aerial and

underground tubers. Vines sprout even from small tubers.

Bulbils float, aiding in dispersal. Has a dormant period in

winter, dropping the bulbils which sprout in the spring.

Control Methods: Foliar or Cut-Stump

During growing season (spring to mid-summer), cut vines

to waist high and apply triclopyr amine or glyphosate.

Remove tubers during winter months when vines have

died back. Carefully dispose of all plant material and

tubers/bulbils in plastic bags; incinerate if possible.

Follow-up applications of herbicide are necessary.

Replacements

In most cases, a replacement is not necessary or desirable.

However, native vine replacements include:

Moonflower vine (Ipomoea alba)

Carolina jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens)

11
12
Casuarina spp.

Australian-pine C. equisetifolia

Suckering Australian-pine C. glauca

Identifying Characteristics

There are two common species of Australian-pine and one

less frequently found in Florida. Australian-pine (C.

equisetifolia) is an evergreen tree to 150 feet. Usually has

a single trunk with reddish-brown to gray bark. Although

the tree resembles a pine, close inspection of the plant

reveals branchlets (not needles) that are jointed, thin,

grayish-green, needle-like and 4 to 8 inches long. Seeds

form in woody, cone-like clusters about 3/4 inch long and 1/2 inch wide; produced year-round.

Suckering Australian-pine (C. glauca) grows to 70 feet tall

with a pyramidal shape. Bark is dark gray-brown and

scaly. Needle-like branchlets are 8 to 10 inches long and

jointed, thin and sometimes waxy. Differs from C.

equisetifolia in having separate male and female plants

and 10 to 17 leaf scales per branchlet and smaller seeds.

There is a less common third species, C. cunninghamiana,

the most cold hardy of the three species.

Habitat

Introduced to Florida in early 1900s and planted as

windbreaks and shade trees. Found in abundance from

Orlando throughout south Florida on sandy shores,

pineland and sawgrass marshes. Colonizes in disturbed

sites such as road shoulders and undeveloped lots.

Growth Habits

Grows extremely fast—5 to 10 feet per year. Creates dense

stands that displace native plants and wildlife. Trees blow

over easily in storms because of shallow root systems.

Seeds are dispersed by birds, water and wind. Suckering

Australian-pine (C. glauca) reproduces aggressively from

widely spreading roots, especially when pruned.

Control Methods:

Cut-Stump or Basal Bark

Large trees should be cut

and treated immediately

with triclopyr ester. Basal

bark applications are also

effective.

Replacements

Longleaf pine (Pinus

palustris)

Slash pine (Pinus elliottii)

Red cedar (Juniperus

virginiana)

13
14
Brazilian pepper Schinus terebinthifolius

Identifying Characteristics

Brazilian pepper is a large, multi-trunked shrub or tree

with arching and crossing branches; can grow to 40 feet

tall, forming thickets. Leaves are evergreen, glossy green

and alternate. Often toothed, leaves are compound with 3

to 11 (usually 7 to 9) leaflets. Leaflets vary in shape, but

are generally found elliptic to oblong and 1 to 2 inches

long. Crushed leaves smell peppery or like turpentine.

Female plants form small white flowers almost every

month of the year, but most profusely in the fall season,

producing clusters of red berries.

Brazilian pepper is a relative of poison ivy and poison

sumac. Sap may irritate skin and pollen may cause

respiratory irritation.

Habitat

Will readily invade residential and urban landscapes.

Invades undisturbed areas—hardwood hammocks,

mangrove forests and pinelands, as well as disturbed areas

such as roadsides, ditches, and fallow farmland.

Growth Habits

Found especially in moist, organic soils, but will grow in

any soil type. Is salt-tolerant, able to withstand flooding,

fire and drought. Sprouts easily from trunk and roots.

Seeds spread by wildlife (bird and small mammals)

consumption.

Control Methods: Cut-Stump or Basal Bark

Use gloves when working with Brazilian pepper. Avoid

dropping berries—collect and dispose of in plastic bags. If

possible, schedule removals in late summer or early fall

before new berries have ripened. Note: Even the green

berries will ripen after cutting the branch. If handcutting, dig up as much of the root system as possible.

Larger trees should be cut to the ground and stumps

treated immediately with triclopyr ester. Basal bark

applications are also effective.

Replacements

Necklace pod (Sophora tomentosa)

Dahoon holly (Ilex cassine)

Walter’s viburnum (Viburnum obovatum)

Wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera)

15
16
Carrotwood tree Cupaniopsis anacardioides

Identifying Characteristics

Usually a single-trunked tree, rapidly growing 30 to 35

feet tall. Outer bark is dark gray; inner bark often orange

(carrot color). Leaves are evergreen, alternate and

compound, shiny and leathery, up to 8 inches long with 4

to 12 oblong leaflets. Produces white to yellow-green

flowers in clusters in late winter or early spring. Fruits

are segmented capsules, about 1 inch and yellow to

orange when ripe; brown when dry. Fruits split to reveal 3

seeds coated with a striking orange crust.

Habitat

Introduced as a landscape plant in the 1960s. Invades

coastal sites including spoil islands, beach dunes,

marshes, mangroves, cypress swamps, and coastal strands.

Found established in various habitats on both coasts of

Florida. Also invades upland sites including pinelands and

scrub. Especially problematic to mangrove ecosystems.

Growth Habits

Grows in wet and dry areas, in any soil type, in full sun or

full shade, and is salt- and freeze-tolerant. Seeds dispersed

by birds and also seeds freely from plantings. Shades out

native vegetation.

Control Methods: Cut-Stump or Basal Bark

Cut larger trees and apply triclopyr ester immediately.

Basal bark applications of triclopyr ester are also effective.

Dispose of seeds in plastic bags. May require follow-up

treatments.

Replacements

Replacement trees should provide shade and food for

wildlife.

Wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera)

Florida privet (Forestiera segregata)

Gumbo-limbo (Bursera simaruba)

Green buttonwood (Conocarpus erectus)

Dahoon holly (Ilex cassine)

Yaupon holly (Ilex vomitoria)

Sweetbay magnolia (Magnolia virginiana)

17
18
Chinaberry tree Melia azedarach

Identifying Characteristics

Deciduous tree growing to 50 feet tall. Chinaberry is a

multi-branched tree with dark, chocolate brown bark

becoming increasingly fissured with age. Evident white

lenticels (dots) mark the glossy brown stems. Leaves are

alternate, two or three times compound, and grow up to

11/2 feet long. Leaflets are dark green and lacy in appearance. Flowers are small and lilac-colored; fruits are round

yellow to yellow-green and hang in clusters. Fruits are

fleshy, single-seeded and ripen late summer.

Bark and leaves are poisonous to domestic animals and

livestock, and fruits are poisonous to humans and some

mammals, including livestock.

Habitat

Found primarily in disturbed areas such as roadsides and

fencerows, but has also been found in marshes and upland

woods. Most abundant in north and west Florida, but

found as far south as the Keys.

Growth Habits

Spreads by seed drop and dispersal by birds. Sprouts from

root collars, forming colonies from root sprouts. Shades

out native vegetation.

Control Methods: Cut-Stump or Basal Bark

Large trees should be cut and treated immediately with

triclopyr ester. Basal bark applications are also effective.

Roots are very deep and difficult to pull up. Revisit site to

pull seedlings.

Replacements

Laurel oak (Quercus laurifolia)

Bluejack oak (Quercus incana)

Flatwoods plum (Prunus umbellata)

Chickasaw plum (Prunus angustifolia)

Red mulberry (Morus rubra)

19
20
Chinese tallow tree Sapium sebiferum

Popcorn tree

Identifying Characteristics

Deciduous tree with milky sap, growing to 60 feet tall.

Leaves alternate and ovate with broadly rounded bases

that taper to slender points, somewhat heart-shaped.

Leaves turn yellow to red in fall. Flowers small, yellow, in

spikes; occur in spring. Fruits are capsules, green turning

brown and splitting open to reveal three white seeds in

late summer to early fall. Seeds often remain attached

throughout winter and resemble popcorn.

Sap is milky and poisonous.

Habitat

Invades stream banks, roadside ditches and wet areas, but

also grows in upland areas. Shade- and salt-tolerant.

Growth Habits

Introduced as an ornamental and as a potential oil crop

species. Early growth is very rapid, with onset of flowers

and fruit when the tree reaches approximately three feet

in height. Young trees establish a taproot system that

allows the tree to withstand extended periods of drought.

Seeds dispersed by birds and by water. Suckers from

stumps.

Control Methods: Cut-Stump or Basal Bark

Apply triclopyr amine to freshly cut stump or triclopyr

ester as basal bark or cut-stump treatment in late spring

or early summer after mature leaves have developed, and

before seeds have developed. Reapplications may be

necessary. Pull seedlings by hand. Dispose of seeds in

plastic bags.

Replacements

Black gum (Nyssa sylvatica var. biflora)

Red maple (Acer rubrum)

Persimmon (Diospyros virginiana)

Cedar elm (Ulmus crassifolia)

Turkey oak (Quercus laevis)

Post oak (Quercus stellata)

21
The midvein is offcenter in Cogon grass

leaves (right).

22
Cogon grass Imperata cylindrica

Identifying Characteristics

Aggressive perennial grass, growing in tufts from

extensive rhizomes. Considered one of the top 10 worst

weeds in the world and a pest in 73 countries. Erect,

narrow leaves, up to 5 feet tall, with whitish, noticeably

off-center midvein. Leaves are yellow-green, sharply

pointed and hairy at the base. Leaf blades also have

scabrous (rough to the touch) margins. Flowers are white

silky plumes up to 8 inches long, found year-round in

south and central Florida.

Habitat

Introduced for forage and soil stabilization. Commonly

found in open forests, fields, pastures and along transportation and utility corridors. Thrives in areas of minimal

tillage.

Growth Habits

Fast-growing. Grows in full sunlight to partial shade in

any area without standing water. Disperses by windborne

seeds and by extensive rhizomes. Often spread by

fragmentation on farm and roadway machinery. Highly

flammable and aggressively invades after fire.

Control Methods: Foliar

Control in late fall when leaves are bright green. Mow

before seed heads have set, then wait until grass grows to

6 inches to apply glyphosate or imazapyr. Repeat applications may be necessary. Landowners may need a cover

crop if treating large areas.

Replacements

Eastern gamma/Fakahatchee grass

(Tripsacum dactyloides)

Love grasses

(Eragrostis elliottii or E. spectabilis)

23
24
Guinea grass Panicum maximum

(sometimes listed as Urochloa maxima)

Identifying Characteristics

Originally from Africa; introduced agriculturally as

animal fodder. Leaves are long and narrow, flat and bright

green, fine and soft. Hairy leaves, 1

/2 to 11/4 inches wide,

can grow 5 to 39 inches long. Margins are glabrous

(smooth or hairless). Tiny flowers are on inflorescent

spikelets and are green or tinged with purple. Plants can

grow 3 to 9 feet tall.

Habitat

Grows naturally in open grasslands. Usually forms

colonies under or near trees and shrubs on abandoned

cultivated land, fields and wastelands.

Growth Habits

Considered an invasive weed because the grass suppresses

or displaces local plants. This tufted perennial grass

usually grows in large bunches from short stout rhizomes

and grows on a wide variety of soils, in both sun and

shade. Can survive long, dry periods, as well as fire. The

underground rhizomes are not harmed by fire and may

therefore dominate after a fire. Responds quickly to

watering and fertilizer. Seeds are dispersed by wind, birds

and flowing water.

Control Methods: Foliar

Mow, then wait until grass grows to 6 inches to apply

glyphosate or imazapyr. Reapplications will be necessary.

Replacements

Muhly grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris)

Love grasses

(Eragrostis elliottii or E. spectabilis)

Eastern gamma/Fakahatchee grass

(Tripsacum dactyloides)

25
Leaves of Old World

climbing fern (top)

grow more finely

divided as they

mature (facing page).

Leaves of Japanese

climbing fern (left)

are “lacy.”

A mass of Japanese

climbing fern is

shown below.

26
Lygodium spp.

Japanese climbing fern L. japonicum

Old World climbing fern L. microphyllum

Identifying Characteristics

Climbing and twining perennial viney ferns that grow to

90 feet. Vines arise from underground, widely creeping

rhizomes. Wiry stems may be green to orange, turning

dark brown or black. Leaves are finely divided/dissected

when mature and bright green in color. Leaves vary in

appearance according to the number of divisions in the

leaflet and species. L. japonicum leaves have a “lacy”

appearance. Leaves are 2 to 6 inches long and 2 to 3

inches wide.

Habitat

These ferns occur in disturbed areas such as alongside

bridges, roadside ditches and fence lines. Also commonly

found along stream and swamp margins and open forests.

Growth Habits

Will grow in shady or sunny areas. Flooding will not kill

the ferns; will also thrive in shallow water, as well as dry

areas. The ferns form mats up to 4 feet thick on trees and

shrubs, smothering trees and native vegetation. The vines

are mostly deciduous by late winter—or turn dark to tan

in winter. Vines that have died back provide a trellis for

next season’s growth. Reproduce by millions of spores

spread by wind and other physical carriers.

Control Methods: Cut-Stump or Foliar

Cut to knee- or waist-high then apply glyphosate

immediately or foliar spray using glyphosate and

metsulfuron methyl with care if treating around desirable

plants. Care should be taken to

remove upper fronds, as spores may

still be viable. Dispose of dead

material in plastic bags. For best

results, control this plant from July

to October during its active growth.

Reapplications will be necessary.

Replacements

Cinnamon fern (Osmunda

cinnamomea)

Royal fern (Osmunda regalis)

Chain fern (Woodwardia

virginica) 27
28
Kudzu vine Pueraria montana var. lobata

Identifying Characteristics

A deciduous, twining, trailing, mat-forming vine with

rope-like brown woody stems. Kudzu can grow 35 to 100

feet long. Pinnately compound leaves have three leaflets

and are alternate and bright green. Tips of leaflets are

pointed and usually slightly lobed (unless growing in the

shade). Each leaflet is 3 to 7 inches long and 21/2 to 8

inches wide with fine hairs on leaf margins. Young stems

and leafstalks are hairy. Flowers are 2- to 12-inch-long

racemes of pea-like flowers, opening from the base to the

top. Petals are lavender to wine colored with yellow

centers; flowers June to September. Fruits are clustered,

dry, flattened, wide bean pods. Pods are 1 to 3 inches long

and up to 1

/2 inch wide. Immature pods are green,

ripening to tan and covered with stiff golden-brown hairs.

The pods split on one or two sides to release a few seeds.

Note: Often confused with Air potato, but leaf shape is

usually the identifying characteristic.

Habitat

Occurs along streams, rights-of-way, along roadsides and

anywhere else it can twine around.

Growth Habits

Kudzu is drought-tolerant, and forms dense mats over the

ground, debris, shrubs and trees by twining on objects

less than 4 inches in diameter. Can kill a tree by blocking

out all sunlight. The vine produces roots at its nodes.

Spreads by wind, birds and mammals, and water-dispersed

seeds.

Control Methods: Cut-Stump or Foliar

Use foliar method with care if treating around desirable

plants. Cut vine to waist level and apply glyphosate

immediately. Best results occur after Kudzu has flowered

and/or when vine has eight leaves or more, from July to

the first killing frost. Reapplications may be necessary.

Replacements

In most cases, a replacement is not necessary or desirable.

However, native vine replacements include:

Moonflower vine (Ipomoea alba)

Coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens)

Carolina jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens)

29
30
Lead tree Leucaena leucocephala

Jumbie bean

Identifying Characteristics

Rapidly growing shrub or tree from the legume family

that grows to 60 feet. Leaves are Mimosa-like with 11 to

24 (usually about 15 pairs) elliptic, light green leaflets

that are about 1/2 inch long. Leaves are bipinnately

compound, and grow to 5 to 71

/2 inches long. Bark is

fissured with abundant lenticels (distinct white dots) on

trunk. Flowers are yellowish-white in round “puffs,”

blooming in the summer. Large, flat, reddish-brown bean

pods hang in clusters (4 to 10 per leaf). Each pod contains

at least 15 oval, glossy brown seeds.

Habitat

Found in disturbed sites, pinelands and hammocks along

the coastal zone. Has become a nuisance tree due to its

ability to out compete native species.

Growth Habits

Prefers alkaline soils, full sun and warm temperatures.

Lead tree will die back with mild frosts, but will rapidly

regrow from deep roots. Highly drought-tolerant once

established, but will not stand water-logged conditions.

Control Methods: Cut-Stump, Basal Bark or Foliar

Cut trees and apply triclopyr ester immediately. Basal

bark applications are also effective. Foliar spray small

trees (less than 4 feet tall) with glyphosate and

metsulfuron methyl.

Replacements

Saffron plum (Sideroxylon celastrinum)

Yaupon holly (Ilex vomitoria)

Sweet acacia (Acacia farnesiana)

Hercules’ club (Zanthoxylum clava-herculis)

31
32
Melaleuca Melaleuca quinquenervia

Punk tree

Identifying Characteristics

Melaleuca is a rapidly growing tree that can reach 100

feet. Identified by its white, many-layered peeling bark.

Narrow, grayish-green, lance-shaped leaves are 2 to 8

inches long and 1

/2 inch wide; smell of camphor when

crushed. Flowers year-round in creamy white “bottle

brush” spikes that are 6 inches long. Fruits are small,

brown, woody cone-like clusters that surround young

stems. Each cone-like cluster may hold up to 300 tiny

seeds.

May cause headaches, rashes, asthma attacks and

respiratory irritation in certain people.

Habitat

Prefers wet sites such as lake shores, swamps and

wetlands, but also flourishes in standing water. Will

survive in well-drained uplands such as residential yards.

Mature trees can survive frost damage and fire damage.

Melaleuca will displace native vegetation with its rapid

colonization.

Growth Habits

Sprouts easily from stumps and roots. Spreads rapidly,

creating thickets. Produces up to 20 million windborne

seeds per year per tree; tends to release seeds when

stressed.

Control Methods: Cut-Stump

Large trees should be cut and stumps treated immediately

with triclopyr ester or imazapyr. Pull seedlings by hand.

Retreatments may be necessary.

Replacements

Pignut hickory (Carya glabra)

Water hickory (Carya aquatica)

In wetland areas:

Pop ash (Fraxinus caroliniana)

Sweetbay magnolia (Magnolia virginiana)

In upland areas:

Southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)

33
34
Mexican petunia Ruellia tweediana

Mexican bluebell Ruellia brittoniana

(sometimes listed as Britton’s wild petunia)

Identifying Characteristics

Perennial herb with a white, pink or lavender to purple

flower on an erect green stem. May grow to 3 feet tall,

although there are dwarf or compact varieties. Leaves are

opposite, linear-lanceolate to linear-elliptic, up to 1 inch

wide and up to 10 inches long. Veins are prominently

raised on the underside of the leaf, margins are smooth or

wavy and tips are pinched to a point. Light pink to bluishpurple flowers are solitary or in clusters and flower

throughout most of the year in Florida. Fruit is a

cylindrical capsule containing 4 to 20 tiny seeds.

Habitat

Presumably introduced as an ornamental plant; now

found from Louisiana down the peninsula of Florida.

Forms invasive, dense rhizome colonies in marshy or wet

areas. Tolerates a wide variety of soil types. Grows well in

both shade and sun, and tolerates heat and drought,

therefore dominates creek beds, pine flatwoods, hardwood

hammocks, prairies, rivers and pastures; excludes native

groundcover wherever it invades.

Growth Habits

Plants spread readily from seeds, rhizomes, stem sprouts

and cuttings. Each plant can produce thousands of viable

seeds each season. May freeze back in winter, but will

resprout from the roots.

Control Methods: Foliar

Use foliar method with care if treating around desirable

plants. Cut larger plants down and apply glyphosate. Pull

seedlings up by hand.

Replacements

Wild petunia (Ruellia caroliniensis)

Blue curls (Trichostema dichotomum)

Butterflyweed (Asclepias tuberosa) for dry areas

Swamp milkweed (Asclepias perennis) for wet areas

35
36
Rosary pea Abrus precatorius

Crab’s eyes

Identifying Characteristics

A high climbing (10 to 20 feet), twining or trailing woody

vine with slender green branches. Leaves are alternate, 2

to 5 inches long, even-pinnately compound with 5 to 15

pairs of leaflets. Each leaflet is oval to oblong and less

than 1 inch long. Flowers are shaped like pea flowers;

small and white to pink to reddish in color. Prolific

flowers and fruits in the summer. The fruit is a short,

oblong pod that splits before falling, revealing 3 to 8

shiny, hard, scarlet red seeds with black bases. Each red

seed is about 1

/4 inch in diameter.

Seeds are extremely poisonous to humans, cattle and

horses.

Habitat

Invades pinelands and hammocks. Naturalized in roadside

areas, waste areas and along fencerows of south and

central Florida; typically a problem in old citrus groves.

Growth Habits

In sunny locations, may form a smothering blanket. Roots

grow very deep and are difficult to eradicate. Fires tend to

encourage growth. Seeds are dispersed by birds.

Control Methods: Cut-Stump or Foliar

Cut large woody vines down and apply triclopyr ester

immediately. For foliar method, apply triclopyr amine or

glyphosate with care if treating around desirable plants.

The roots of this plant are deep and difficult to pull up.

Replacements

Leather flower (Clematis crispa)

Carolina jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens)

37
38
Skunk vine Paederia foetida

Identifying Characteristics

Twining vines from woody rootstock; stems can grow to

23 feet. Most identifying characteristic is the pungent

(“skunky”) odor that the vine emits when leaves and

stems are crushed. Leaves are opposite, oval to linearlanceolate and 1 to 4 inches long. They are often lobed at

the base and are deep green in color. Leaves may drop in

winter months. Flowers are small, cream to grayish-pink

with lilac-colored centers in clusters. Flowers and fruits

in late summer and fall. Fruits are shiny, golden brown

round globes about 1

/3 inch wide and persist through

winter.

Habitat

Both species occur in tree gaps and disturbed areas, as

well as sandhill habitats, floodplains, and upland mixed

forests. May withstand flooding. Skunk vine is most

commonly found in west and central Florida but has been

found northward.

Growth Habits

Paederia spp. are rapidly growing plants. Dense canopies

may form, leading to damage or death of native vegetation. They are spread by the transport of rooted fragments

and seeds. Adapts to varying salt, soil and light conditions.

Control Methods: Cut-Stump or Foliar

Cut vines to waist-high then apply triclopyr amine or

triclopyr ester immediately. Destroy seeds and stem

fragments (as they will root) by disposing of in plastic

bags. Use foliar method with care if treating around

desirable plants. Reapplications will be necessary.

Replacements

Coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens)

Carolina jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens)

39
40
Torpedo grass Panicum repens

Bullet grass

Identifying Characteristics

Perennial grass growing to 3 feet tall. White or brownish

rhizomes often thick as a pencil, with hard torpedo-like

tips that creep along the ground or float; may be several

feet in length. Aerial stems are wrapped in sheaths, which

are rough to the touch and hairy near the top. Leaf blades

are less than 1/4 inch wide and pale green with hairs on

upper surface. Blades are often rolled inward but may also

be flat. The inflorescence is branched and open; about 3 to

9 inches long and 2 to 5 inches wide; flowering yearround.

Habitat

Found in citrus groves, golf courses, and near water.

Occurs in marshy areas and shallow fresh water and will

form floating mats on water.

Growth Habits

Considered one of the most serious weeds because it

quickly dominates and displaces native vegetation.

Thrives in moist sandy or organic soils, but tolerates

heavy upland soils. Will also tolerate drought and partial

shade. Spreads primarily by aggressive rhizomes, but may

spread by seed. Fertilizer and tilling may also stimulate

spreading.

Control Methods: Foliar

Avoid tilling and cultivation, as this stimulates grass

growth. Apply glyphosate in late fall when leaves are

bright green. Reapplications are necessary.

Replacements

For dry areas:

Muhly grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris)

Purple love grass (Eragrostis spectabilis)

Elliott’s love grass (Eragrostis elliottii)

Sand cordgrass (Spartina bakeri)

For wet areas:

Maidencane (Panicum hemitomon )

Seashore paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum)

41
The fruits of Tropical

soda apple are green

(right). Native soda

apple has reddishorange fruits (below).

42
Tropical soda apple Solanum viarum

Identifying Characteristics

This prickly, herbaceous perennial grows to 6 feet tall, but

is usually found about 3 feet tall. Most obvious identifying

characteristic is the small (one inch to golf ball size)

round fruit resembling a tiny watermelon. When

immature, the fruits are green with dark veining; they

turn a dull, medium yellow when ripe. Fruits are apparent

on plant year-round, as the plant flowers all year in

Florida. Flowers are white and five-petaled.

Note: Native soda apple (Solanum capsicoides) is noninvasive and has reddish-orange fruits.

Stems have hairs and straight or downward pointing

prickles up to 3/4 inch long. Leaves also have prickles, are

alternate, simple and clearly petioled. Leaf shape is ovaltriangular, nearly as broad as long at 4 to 8 inches long

and 2 to 6 inches wide. Tops of leaves are covered with

fine hairs, giving them a velvety sheen.

Habitat

Found in pastures and other open, disturbed areas such as

groves, roadsides, retention ponds and edges of pineland

and hammocks.

Growth Habits

This plant is a major agricultural concern, as the seeds

are spread by contaminated hay seed, mowers and other

machinery. Most common vectors of the seeds are feral

hogs and cattle, but other animals such as birds and

raccoons also aid in the spread of this invasive plant. One

fruit has 200 to 400 seeds.

Tropical soda apple does not always freeze back and can

regenerate shoots from the extensive root system.

Control Methods: Foliar

Prior to fruiting, apply glyphosate, triclopyr amine or

triclopyr ester to leaves. Fruit will ripen after plant is

treated with herbicide. Collect fruit and dispose of in

plastic bags to prevent reestablishment. Pull seedlings by

hand (use gloves!).

Replacements

Rouge plant (Rivina humilis)

Adam’s needle (Yucca filamentosa)

Wild coffee (Psychotria spp.)

43
Castor bean Ricinus communis

Grows 9 to 12 feet tall. Leaves are green and reddish,

slightly serrated and palmately lobed (have pointed fingerlike lobes) with prominent central veins.

Identifiable by the noticeable 3-lobed green fruits that are

about 1 inch long and have a soft spiny exterior. Fruits

bear smooth, mottled seeds (from which castor oil is

obtained); many are green, but may be reddish, purplish

or brown-tinged. One large seed develops in each lobe.

Persists around gardens, building sites and old, fallow

fields. Also found along road shoulders and edges of

cultivated land. Control with triclopyr amine or triclopyr

ester using basal bark, foliar or cut-stump method. Can

pull seedlings by hand (wear gloves!).

Seeds are poisonous to people, animals and insects.

44
Camphor tree Cinnamomum camphora

Most identifiable characteristic is odor of the leaves and

stems when crushed or broken. Both give off strong odor

of camphor. Leaves are glossy green, simple, alternate and

mostly ovate. Leaves may have wavy margins and are light

green. Leaf length is 11

/2 to 4 inches long and 1/2 to 2

inches wide. Twigs, leaves, and petioles are the same color.

Flowers are small, greenish-white to cream in color and

produce small, black round drupes. Each black berry

contains one seed; berries are abundant on mature trees.

Camphor trees may grow to 65 feet; produce a dense

canopy of shade, shading out native plant species.

Camphor tree is found

all over Florida, and is

still sold as a shade

tree or for wind

breaks. Trees are

found primarily in

drier, disturbed areas

such as roadsides and

fencerows, but also

found in upland pine

woods, edges of

wetlands and scrubland. Control with

triclopyr ester using

basal bark or cutstump method. Pull

seedlings by hand.

45
Paper mulberry Broussonetia papyrifera

The tree’s common name comes from its bark, which has

been used in making paper. Fast-growing deciduous tree,

growing 40 to 50 feet tall. Simple leaves are alternate or

opposite or whorled on same plant, and very hairy. Leaves

grow 2 to 71/2 inches long and 2 to 6 inches wide. Margins

on leaves are toothed and sometimes lobed. Flowers and

orange to red fruits hang in clusters.

Forms dense shade, shading out native species. Found in

disturbed sites and near homes. Control with triclopyr

ester using basal bark or cut-stump method.

46
The Invasive Species Task Force

The Invasive Species Task Force (ISTF) is a multi-agency

partnership with 4 main goals: 1) remove existing nonnative invasive plants on public lands and stem the spread

of invasives to other sites, 2) facilitate citizen involvement

and volunteerism with the control and removal of invasive

plants, 3) create awareness and educate the public about

the existence and the harm of invasive plants to Florida’s

plant and wildlife, and 4) educate the public on invasive

plant control, eradication techniques and native plant

replacements on private properties.

Participants of the ISTF include citizens, non-profit

organizations and government agencies, including:

Hillsborough County:

• Parks, Recreation &

Conservation—Resource

Management & Maintenance

• Public Works—Specialized

Services & Mosquito Control

• Planning & Growth

Management

• Environmental Protection

Commission

• Extension Service

• Solid Waste Management

• Real Estate Department

City of Tampa Parks

Department

Ruskin Community Development Foundation (RCDF)

Pepper Patrol

Wildlife Fellowship Inc.

Tampa Bay Estuary Program

Tampa Electric Company

Florida Department of

Environmental Protection:

• Division of Recreation

and Parks

• Bureau of Invasive Plant

Management

Southwest Florida Water

Management District:

• Surface Water Improvement

and Management (SWIM)

Program

• Community Education

Grant Program

How can YOU get involved?

• Contact the Invasive Species Task Force (page 4) or

your local county extension office.

• Participate in Task Force invasive removal work days.

These weekend work days are held several times a year.

• Remove invasive plants from your yard and property to

eliminate the seed source.

• Purchase and landscape your yard and property with

native plants. Refer to the Resources section on page 4

for native plant information.

• Support invasive removal; encourage your neighbors,

local businesses, families and friends to remove

invasives from their yards. 47
Sources

Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Bureau

of Invasive Plant Management. “Weed Alert” Series.

www.dep.state.fl.us/lands/invaspec/index.htm

Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center, Inc. “Identifying

& Controlling Invasive Exotic Plants in Southwest

Florida: A Homeowners’ Guide.” February 2003.

Haehle, Robert G. and Joan Brookwell. 1999. Native

Florida Plants. Houston, TX: Gulf Publishing

Company.

Hammer, Roger L. 2002. “Mexican Bluebell (Ruellia

Tweediana Griseb.): A Pretty Invasive.” Wildland

Weeds. Spring 2002: 7–8.

Langeland, K.A. and K. Craddock Burks, eds. 1998.

Identification & Biology of Non-native Plants in

Florida’s Natural Areas. Gainesville, FL: UF/IFAS

Distribution.

Langeland, K.A. 2003. “Help Protect Florida’s Natural

Areas from Non-native Invasive Plants” Circular

1204. Agronomy Department, Florida Cooperative

Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural

Sciences, University of Florida, 2000–2002.

edis.ifas.ufl.edu

Langeland, K. A. 2000 – 2002. “Natural Area Weeds”

Series. Agronomy Department, Florida Cooperative

Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural

Sciences, University of Florida, 2000–2002.

edis.ifas.ufl.edu

Miller, James H. 2003. Non-native Invasive Plants of

Southern Forests, A Field Guide for Identification

and Control. Asheville, NC: USDA Forest Service

Southern Research Station.

South Florida Water Management District and Department of Environmental Protection. “Torpedograss”

www.sfwmd.gov

Suncoast Native Plant Society. 1997. The Right Plants for

Dry Places: Native Plant Landscaping In Central

Florida. St. Petersburg, FL: Great Outdoors Publishing Company, Inc.

Yarlett, Lewis L. 1996. Common Grasses of Florida and

the Southeast. Spring Hill, Florida: Florida Native

Plant Society. 48
Printed with the support of the 2003 Community

Education Grant Program through the Alafia River

Basin Board of the Southwest Florida Water

Management District. Produced with the support of

the Tampa Bay Estuary Program, Hillsborough

County Invasive Species Task Force and the

Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and

Conservation Department.

Edited by Wendy Valle.

Photos by Bryon Chamberlin, Mike Collins,

Ross Dickerson, and Wendy Valle.

Graphic design by Mariella Johns Smith.

InSight

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Hillsborough County

Invasive Species Task Force

Parks, Recreation and Conservation

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