Invasive species, including Lespedeza cuneata, threaten the success of grassland restoration through their ability to alter species composition following invasion. Through exploring the mechanisms by which an invasive functions (above- and below-ground) and the response of native plants from different functional groups to these mechanisms, a more targeted integrated management approach can be developed. This can include focusing control actions above- or below-ground, and understanding if the presence or absence of certain types of species in the community are correlated with invasive success. Through field studies and a greenhouse experiment, both above- and below-ground interactions with cuneata were investigated. Results indicate that Lesepedeza cuneata alters the abiotic and biotic components of its ecosystem to impact species composition, yet it is limited by the presence/absence and abundance of native grasses and legumes.