All Exotic Plants are not bad. These plants are described as invasive exotic plants . These weeds form self-sustaining populations within our natural plant communities and ultimately eliminate the desirable plants that comprise these natural areas. Invasive exotic plants threaten wildlife habitats and displace native plants that are important to Florida's ecology. They can out compete most native plants because they grow quickly and are not easily affected by native pests and diseases.
Some exotic plants growing near residential areas cause allergic reactions in people.
These spreading exotics are difficult and expensive to remove, and diminish the diversity of wildlife. The more these species grow and spread, the bigger the problem becomes. You can help reduce the burden on taxpayers by removing exotics on your property. In a effort to contain invasive exotics the Collier County Land Development Code requires prohibited exotic species to be removed from most residential and commercial developments and prevent recolonization. In addition it is illegal to cultivate, sell or transport invasive exotics.