Tamarisk was introduced to the U.S. in the mid-1800's for ornamental and erosion control uses. The hearty Asian tree unfortunately escaped cultivation. Tamarisk has spread throughout Southwester riparian areas, replacing native species at an alarming rate. When chopped down or burned, it simply sends up new shoots. There are no known insect or disease enemies in the U.S. Leaves secrete salt which prevents insects and animals from feeding on tamarisk and raises the soil salinity above the tolerance of other species.
Tamarisk grows a dense leaf cover, shading out other species.
The effects of flood control and exotic species are staggering. In 1993, the Rio Grande was named the Most Endangered River in North America. Ninety-five percent of the bosque is gone. The condition of the remaining bosque is not good news either. The degradation of riparian habitats has hurt native populations of insects, fish, reptiles, amphibians, birds and mammals.