Invasives

Identification and Management

Selected Plants that Threaten Chicagoland Natural Areas: This guide provides information about invasive species in our region to aid in proper identification and management.

Invasive Plants in Gardens and Landscapes: This resource provides you with suggestions for native alternatives to common invasives.

Invasives Research with Extension: Learn about why and how we need to manage invasives in Illinois.

Invasive Alerts

Updated regularly to reflect the most up-to-date and relevant information
 

Jumping worms: A group of non-native earthworm species in the Amynthas and Metaphire genera. Learn about how to prevent the spread of jumping worm and manage invasions in your own garden.

Spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula): An invasive insect which targets fruit, ornamental, and woody trees.

Garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata): A highly invasive forb threatening Illinois forests.

Chaff flower (Achyranthes japonica): An invasive forb that is rapidly spreading throughout the Midwest. 

 

Clump of garlic mustard growing in a forest.
Garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata) Credit: Chris Evans, University of Illinois, Bugwood.org
Spotted lanternfly on leaf.
Spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) Credit: Ansel Oommen, Bugwood.org
Winged burning bush turning red in the fall.
Winged burning bush (Euonymus alatus) Credit: Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org