DNR Announced Another Invasive Plant To Watch Out For

Just when we Michiganders think we know all the invasive plants and bugs to watch out for another one gets added to the list.  There's a new invasive plant to watch out for.

Invasive Species

So what is an invasive species and how do they get here?

The technical definition of an invasive species is a non-native animal, plant, or other living organism that will harm the environment, human health, or the economy in an area where it doesn't normally live.

Invasive species get to the United States in a variety of ways from intentional and unintentional human activities. Many invasive bugs travel in shipping containers from other countries around the world. Many birds (some containing bird flu) hitch a ride on ships and re-populate when they arrive. Sometimes birds that migrate eat seeds from invasive plants and later poop them out where they normally don't grow.

Read More: Michiganders Make Sure You Know What Poison Sumach Is

DNR Announced Michigan's Newest Invasive Plant

Oh, look at the pretty yellow flowers. I have seen these in the woods around Michigan and thought they were pretty and harmless. They are called "Lesser Celandine" and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has now added them to the invasive plant list.

The lesser celandine is found heavily in mid-Michigan near streams and in forested floodplains. You can find this plant in some areas alongside the Grand River.

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What makes the lesser celandine a problem in Michigan? According to the DNR, the plants crowd out native plants like spring beauties and trilliums located where the lesser celandine has been popping up. The lesser celandine blocks the sunlight for native plants and absorbs their nutrients and they spread easily.  These plants are also mildly toxic and contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can damage human and animal livers if the plant is eaten raw. If you see any of these plants growing, it is best to report them here.