Woody Invasive Species
Autumn Olive | Buckthorns | Japanese Barberry | Multiflora Rose | Honeysuckles
Autumn Olive
- Restricted species in Michigan-do not sell or transport.
- A large shrub with leaves that are green with a distinctive silver underside.
- Whole leaf edges that are wavy.
- Impact: spreads aggressively, shading out desirable native plants
Glossy and Common Buckthorn
- Purple to black fruits appear in the fall.
- Oval leaves that are slightly toothed (Common) and dark green in color.
- Twigs often have a sharp thorn (Common).
- Impact: releases chemicals that prohibit growth of native plants, form dense thickets.
Japanese Barberry
- Small leaves raindrop shaped with an elongated point.
- Leaves are clustered along the stem of the shrub.
- Berries are bright red, egg shaped and persist into winter.
- Impact: promotes higher tick populations
Multiflora Rose
- Stems are green to red with very large downward curving thorns.
- Smaller stems branch off of the main stem in an alternating pattern and each smaller stem has opposite leaves.
- Five petaled white to pink flowers.
- Impact: spreads aggressively, forming dense thickets that crowd out native shrubs
Invasive Honeysuckles
- Invasive honeysuckles include: Bell’s, Amur (pictured), Morrow’s, & Tartarian.
- Leaves vary among different species.
- Second-year stems are hollow on the inside.
- Berries are bright red.
- Impact: spreads aggressively, shading out desirable native plants.
Check out our guide on Woody Invasive Species ID and Treatment here: [PDF]
For more information on invasive ID and treatment, visit our resources page!
