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!

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