The plant experts say to stop buying: What makes it risky for your garden

Gardening experts are issuing urgent warnings about specific plants that, while aesthetically appealing, pose significant ecological and legal risks. From invasive ground covers to noxious perennials, these species threaten local ecosystems, violate state regulations, and could lead to costly fines. Below, we break down the most problematic plants, their risks, and safer alternatives.

The Ecological Impact of Invasive Plants

Invasive species like English ivy and purple loosestrife outcompete native flora, degrade habitats, and disrupt food chains. English ivy, often marketed as a low-maintenance ground cover, spreads aggressively, choking out native plants and destabilizing trees. Purple loosestrife, a perennial with vibrant purple blooms, invades wetlands, displacing endangered orchids and altering nutrient cycles. Even plants labeled “sterile” can hybridize with native species, exacerbating ecological damage.

Legal and Regulatory Consequences

In Texas, purple loosestrife is classified as a noxious weed, making its sale, purchase, or importation illegal. Violations can result in fines or legal action. Homeowners associations (HOAs) also enforce strict rules against invasive or overly dense plants, imposing penalties like daily fines until compliance.

The Most Problematic Plants to Avoid

English Ivy: A Deceptively Harmless Ground Cover

English ivy (Hedera helix) is widely sold for its evergreen foliage and ease of growth. However, it:

• Chokes native vegetation: Its dense mats prevent sunlight from reaching native plants, causing biodiversity loss.
• Damages trees: Ivy vines encircle trunks, weakening structures and increasing storm-related failures.
• Spreads uncontrollably: Birds and small mammals disperse seeds, accelerating its spread into wild areas.

Experts urge gardeners to avoid it entirely, recommending native alternatives like creeping juniper or low-growing sedum.

Purple Loosestrife: A Noxious Perennial with a False Promise

Purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) is banned in Texas due to its:

• Aggressive seed production: A single plant can generate 2 million seeds annually, colonizing wetlands rapidly.
• Hybridization risks: Even “sterile” cultivars crossbreed with native Lythrum species, creating invasive hybrids.
• Ecosystem disruption: It displaces native plants critical for pollinators and waterfowl, altering wetland dynamics.

Mealycup sage (Salvia farinacea), a drought-tolerant Texas native, offers similar purple blooms without ecological harm.

Sweet Broom: The Plant Gaining Popularity at Home Improvement Stores

Sweet broom (Cytisus scoparius), recently spotted at Home Depot, is described as “horrible” by experts. While its bright yellow flowers may attract buyers, it:

• Spreads rapidly: Its seeds disperse widely, establishing dense thickets in wild areas.
• Outcompetes natives: It dominates open spaces, reducing habitat for endangered species.
• Lacks regulation: Unlike purple loosestrife, it’s not yet banned in all states, making it a growing threat.

Navigating HOA Rules and Legal Restrictions

Understanding Homeowners Association Regulations

HOAs often restrict plants that:

• Exceed height limits: Tall shrubs or trees blocking windows or entryways.
• Create maintenance issues: Dense growth requiring frequent trimming.
• Attract pests: Invasive species that spread to neighboring properties.

Violations may trigger:

• Written warnings: Initial notices to remove non-compliant plants.
• Fines: Penalties like $250 per violation per month until compliance.
• Legal action: Persistent offenders may face lawsuits to enforce removal.

State-Specific Bans and Enforcement

Texas leads in regulating invasive plants, but other states have similar laws. For example:

• Purple loosestrife: Banned in 32 states, including Texas, for its wetland destruction.
• English ivy: Restricted in Pacific Northwest states due to forest encroachment.
• Sweet broom: Emerging as a target for regulation as its spread accelerates.

Gardeners must check local invasive species lists and HOA CC&Rs before planting.

Safe Alternatives and Best Practices

Native Plants as Eco-Friendly Replacements

Choosing native species minimizes ecological risks and supports local wildlife. For example:

• Mealycup sage (Salvia farinacea): A Texas native with purple blooms, drought tolerance, and pollinator appeal.
• Creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum): A low-growing ground cover that doesn’t outcompete natives.
• Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta): A cheerful, non-invasive perennial for sunny gardens.

Responsible Gardening Practices

To avoid invasive species and legal issues:

1. Verify plant origins: Confirm species are non-invasive in your region.
2. Dispose properly: Bag invasive plants for landfill disposal; avoid composting.
3. Monitor growth: Regularly inspect gardens for unwanted spread.

The plants experts warn against—English ivy, purple loosestrife, and sweet broom—carry significant ecological and legal risks. By opting for native alternatives and adhering to local regulations, gardeners can protect ecosystems and avoid costly penalties. Stay informed, choose responsibly, and prioritize plants that benefit both your garden and the environment.