Invasive Plant Information for Zones 9-11
In the U.S., parts of California, Texas, Hawaii, Florida, Arizona, and Nevada are considered zones 9-11. Having the same hardiness and climates, many invasive plants in these states are the same. Some, though, may specifically be a problem in one state but not another. It is always important to check with your local extension service for your state’s invasive species list before planting any non-native plants. Below are some of the most common invasive plants in warm climates of the U.S. zones 9-11: California
Fountain grass Pampas grass Broom Acacia Canary island date palm Kudzu Pepper tree Tree of heaven Tamarisk Eucalyptus Blue gum Red gum
Texas
Tree of heaven Kudzu Giant reed Elephant ear Paper mulberry Water hyacinth Heavenly bamboo Chinaberry tree Hydrilla Glossy privet Japanese honeysuckle Cat’s claw vine Scarlet firethorn Tamarisk
Florida
Brazilian pepper Bishop weed Cat’s claw vine Glossy privet Elephant ear Heavenly bamboo Lantana Indian Laurel Kudzu Acacia Japanese honeysuckle Guava Britton’s wild petunia Camphor tree Tree of heaven
Hawaii
Chinese violet Bengal trumpet Yellow oleander Lantana Guava Castor bean Elephant ear Canna Acacia Mock orange Pepper grass Ironwood Fleabane Wedelia African tulip tree
For more complete lists on zones 9-11 invasive plants, contact your local extension office.
How to Avoid Planting Hot Climate Invasives
If you move from one state to another, never take plants with you without first checking invasive species regulations of your new state. Many plants that grow as tame, well controlled plants in one zone, can grow completely out of control in another zone. For example, where I live, lantana can only grow as an annual; they never grow very big or out of control and cannot survive our winter temperatures. However, in zones 9-11, lantana is an invasive plant. It’s very important to know your local regulations about invasive plants before moving plants from state to state. To avoid planting hot climate invasives, shop for plants at local nurseries or garden centers. Online nurseries and mail order catalogs can have some beautiful exotic plants, but they could be potentially harmful to natives. Shopping locally also helps promote and support small businesses in your area.
