Clean Water Indiana Funding Proposal

Recorded sessions on how to engage with your Legislators:

Talking to Your Legislators: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwIxWfurUBw

Tell Your Story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oZJeUlmZQAY

Link to template in Canva (if you are unfamiliar with Canva there are instructions in the “Tell Your Story” video: https://bit.ly/3SZChim

Lesson we learned with Canva: if you DO NOT have a Pro Account with Canva, you can access the template and alter it, but it might not let you download it. But we found a workaround: once you have your template the way you like it, click “Share” on top right corner and share with Stephanie (stephanie@sicim.info) or Amber (Amber@sicim.info) and we can download it with our SICIM pro account and email to you. 

• If your organization is a 501c3 you are eligible for a free Canva Pro Account - you just need to provide documentation to Canva

• Or you can create your own! We just wanted to provide a template that you could easily plug in photos and information. Use what works best for you and your CISMA!

Legislative proposal to increase Clean Water Indiana funding

Talking points that can be used when you are talking with your Representatives.

Invasive species data and costs.

Letter to your Legislator template.

October 2022 Invasive Plant of the Month

Mile-a-minute Vine (Persicaria perfoliata)

Mile-a-minute vine is native to East Asia. It was likely introduced to North America accidentally on imported nursery stock through a landscaping nursery in central Pennsylvania in the mid- to late 1930s. Mile-a-minute is a member of the buckwheat family, Polygonaceae. Although its common name exaggerates its growth potential, this annual vine can grow as much as 6 inches a day and can reach heights of more than 25 feet within the growing season. It forms very dense, tangled mats, growing over shrubs, small trees and up the sides of forest edges.

IDENTIFICATION & BIOLOGY:  Leaves: The leaves of mile-a-minute vine are simple, alternate, light green and a nearly perfect triangle shape. Small cup- or saucer-shaped leaf structures, called ocreae, encircle the stem at each node Stems: Mile-a-minute vine stems are delicately narrow and green to red-tinted. The stem, along with the petiole (leaf stem) and midrib on the underside of the leaves are armed with small, stiff, recurved barbs. These barbs are not sharp and stiff enough to inflict pain on a person’s skin but can “grab” skin and clothing. Flowers: Flowering begins in early June. Clusters of small white, rather inconspicuous, flowers emerge from the ocreae.  Flowering and fruiting continues through first frost (usually by late October) when the entire plant dies. Fruits: Flowers develop into clusters of deep, iridescent blue berry-like fruits, approximately 5 mm in diameter.  Each fruit contains a single black or reddish-black hard seed, called an achene. The first seeds begin to ripen by early July and continue to develop and ripen through the first frost.

Mile-a-minute vine foliage

Photo: Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org

Mile-a-minute vine ocreae, stem, and recurved barbs

Photo: Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org

Mile-a-minute vine fruit

Photo: Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org

Mile-a-minute vine invasion

Photo: USDA APHIS PPQ Archive, Bugwood.org

Mile-a-minute vine distribution

Photo courtesy of EDDMapS. 2022. Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System.

LOOK-A-LIKES: Mile-a-minute vine may be confused with the native arrow-leaved tearthumb or halberd-leaved tearthumb, each of which is similarly armed with recurved barbs along their stems. Arrow-leaved tearthumb leaves are narrower than mile-a-minute. Halberd-leaved tearthumb leaves are, as the name suggests, in the shape of a medieval halberd. Neither of these native tearthumbs have ocreae. Other possible look-a-likes include the bindweeds and climbing false buckwheat, neither of which have recurved barbs along the stems (see photos below for look-a-likes).

Look-a-like: arrow-leaved tearthumb

Photo: Glenn Galau, Plant Biology, Univ. of Georgia

Look-a-like: climbing false buckwheat

Photo: Sally Weeks, Purdue University

Look-a-like: halberd-leaved tearthumb

Photo: Glenn Galau, Plant Biology, Univ. of Georgia

HABITAT & DISTRIBUTION:   In its invaded range in North America, it commonly is found growing along roadsides, forest edges, utility rights-of-way, stream banks and in recently logged forests. It prefers moist, rich soil in full sun, but can tolerate partial shade and drier and wetter soils.  In its invaded range, mile-a-minute vine has been reported from New Hampshire to northern Virginia and West Virginia, with southcentral Pennsylvania containing significant levels of infestation where it is believed to have first established in North America. The first verified report of mile-a-minute vine in Indiana occurred in one location in Monroe County in 2018. Since then, no new populations have been reported in Indiana. Because it has not yet widely established in Indiana, mile-a-minute vine should be a high-priority species for prevention, early detection, and rapid response efforts.

ECOLOGICAL THREAT: Mile-a-minute’s rapid growth and dense infestations, along with its very early spring germination (March-April), gives this species a very substantial competitive advantage over most native plant species. It easily overwhelms, shades out and displaces many native herbaceous plant species. It can overtop, shade out, weigh down, and even break taller herbaceous plants, woody shrubs, and tree seedlings and saplings. Mile-a-minute infestations reduce plant species diversity and disrupt wildlife habitat. Where timber harvesting occurs, mile-a-minute destroys tree seedlings and saplings, resulting in forest regeneration failures. It quickly overruns utility rights-of-way where herbicides are used to control unwanted woody vegetation. The density of barbed stems and leaves makes movement very difficult for both animals and humans, negatively impacting wildlife use and human recreational use of infested areas. It is a pest in nurseries, orchards, and landscape plantings. It is listed as a noxious weed in seven states, including Ohio.

CONTROL: Preventing mile-a-minute vine from entering Indiana should be a high priority. Efforts should be made to educate natural resource professionals and landowners on Its identification to improve early detection. Where it already occurs, control should be conducted before mile-a-minute begins producing seed in mid- to late June. Existing populations are most effectively controlled with application of pre-emergent herbicides in early spring, followed by application of a post-emergent herbicide to survivors before fruit set in midsummer. Control efforts and monitoring should continue in subsequent years until no mile-a-minute plants remain. Once mile-a-minute is well established in an area, then management efforts should integrate cultural, biological, and chemical control measures, in conjunction with native plant restoration through seeding and planting.

Prevention: Avoid disturbing areas where mile-a-minute is present until it has been eradicated for several years. Mowing, road maintenance and agricultural equipment can inadvertently spread seed. Mow infested areas along roadsides, ditch banks and field edges before seed begins maturing in mid- to late June. Mile-a-minute seed maturation dates may vary from year to year depending on weather patterns. Avoid working or recreating in or walking or driving through infested areas during seed dispersal periods. Clean clothing, shoes, ATVs, or vehicles following activity in infested areas. 

Manual – Manual control is feasible only for the occasional plant, small infestations, or sensitive areas where herbicides cannot be used. Hand pulling is easy with protective gloves. If manual control occurs after fruit/seed production, plants containing fruits should be bagged and disposed of. Green fruit may still produce viable seed!

Mechanical – Repeated mowing beginning before fruit set and through the growing season to first frost prevents seed production. Mowing should be done low to the ground, as the remaining stems will send up new sprouts and branches.

Biological – A weevil, Rhinoncomimus latipes, found feeding on mile-a-minute vine in its native range in Asia has been tested as a biological control agent in northeastern North America. Although minor feeding by adult weevils has been observed on other members of the buckwheat (Polygonaceae) family, larvae are only known to feed on mile-a-minute. R. latipes has proved effective in reducing mile-a-minute infestations and seed production, particularly where competing vegetation is already established. It has been approved by USDA-APHIS for release and has been integrated into mile-a-minute management programs in 11 eastern states.

Chemical – Large infestations should first be treated with a pre-emergent herbicide application. Effective pre-emergent herbicides include Pendulum Aquacap (pendimethalin) and Plateau (imazapic). When applied to the ground shortly before mile-a-minute seeds begin to germinate, they prevent the new germinants from growing and emerging from the soil. Application should occur by mid-March in southern Indiana, depending on weather patterns. Applied at the proper rates and time these herbicides will not harm established perennial plants or may have less negative impact on some native annual plants that germinate later in the spring. Pre-emergent herbicide treatments should be followed up with a post-emergent herbicide application in later spring to early summer (by mid-June) to control the mile-a-minute plants missed or not otherwise killed by the pre-emergent herbicide application. Triclopyr (Garlon 3A, Garlon 4, Element 3, Element 4, others) and glyphosate (Roundup, Glyphomax, Glyphomate 41, Glypro, others) both are effective at controlling established mile-a-minute plants. Triclopyr is a broadleaf-specific herbicide and applied at proper rates will not harm grasses and sedges. Glyphosate is a broad-spectrum herbicide and will damage all classes of plants. A non-ionic surfactant should be used to increase herbicide uptake. Mile-a-minute may grow on stream and riverbanks or near open water. Caution must be used to follow label restrictions regarding overspray, drift or movement of herbicide into surface waters. Only herbicides and surfactants with an aquatic use label should be applied in these circumstances. Accord, Rodeo, Aquaneat (i.e., glyphosate products) and Garlon 3A and Element 3A (i.e., triclopyr products) are labeled for use in or near aquatic areas.

To report an invasive species that is invading natural areas, use Early Detection and Distribution Mapping System (EDDMapS): https://www.eddmaps.org/report/

IMPORTANT: The pesticide label is the law! When using any chemical control, always read the entire pesticide label carefully, follow all mixing and application instructions and use all personal protective gear and clothing specified. Contact the Office of Indiana State Chemist (OISC) for additional pesticide use requirements, restrictions, or recommendations. SICIM does not endorse any specific pesticide brand.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Purdue University Extension Invasive Plant Series: https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/fnr/fnr-481-w.pdf

Invasive.org: http://www.invasive.org/browse/subinfo.cfm?sub=3065

Penn State Invasive Plant Species Management: https://extension.psu.edu/mile-a-minute

EDDMapS: https://www.eddmaps.org/species/subject.cfm?sub=3065

USDA Weed of the Week: https://www.invasive.org/weedcd/pdfs/wow/mile-a-minute_weed.pdf

LOOK-A-LIKE REFERENCES:

https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/flower/arrow-leaved-tearthumb

https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/flower/halberd-leaved-tearthumb

https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/flower/climbing-false-buckwheat

REFERENCES:

Hough-Goldstein, J., E. Lake and R. Reardon. 2012. Status of an ongoing biological control program for the invasive vine Persicaria perfoliata in eastern North America. BioControl 57:181-189.

Kumar, V. and A. DiTommaso. 2005. Mile-a-minute (Polygonum perfoliatum): an increasingly problematic invasive species. Weed Technology 19:1071-1077.

McCormick, L.H. and N.L. Hartwig. 1995. Control of noxious weed mile-a-minute (Polygonum perfoliatum L.) in reforestation. Northern Journal of Applied Forestry 12:127-132.

Stanosz, G. and W. Jackson. 1991. Mile-a-minute weed. Pest Alert NA-PR-04-91. Morgantown, WV: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northeastern Area.

Future funding and advocacy for invasive species management in Indiana PART TWO: Telling Your Story

Join us on October 5 (two times available) to learn how to tell YOUR story when you are talking to legislators! We’ll talk about the components you’ll need to create a compelling and concise story to tell your legislator, and will share an easy template to use to create your story.

If you missed the last informative meeting on how to connect to your representatives, you can view a recording here: https://youtu.be/CwIxWfurUBw

When: Oct. 5, 12:15-1:15pm AND 6:30-7:30pm (you do not need to attend both sessions)
Where: Virtual (Zoom info below, same link used for both meetings)

Hamilton County Invasives Partnership (HIP): fighting invasives with outreach, education, mapping, and beer!

By Claire Lane

So much has been going on in Hamilton County! We wanted to share some of the amazing things going on that the Hamilton County Invasives Partnership (HIP) has been working on.

Collaboration with Bier Brewery:

HIP is fighting invasive species 12 ounces at a time!  HIP is very excited to share that ‘Native Nectar’, a collaboration beer between HIP and Bier Brewery, will be released in mid-October 2022. Native plants will be featured on the can as well as a message encouraging imbibers to be part of the invasive species solution in their community.  The HIP logo and website will be featured as well.  A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the beer will go back to HIP, supporting invasive species management efforts in Hamilton County.  You will be able to find the beer at both Bier Brewery locations (Indianapolis and Carmel) as well as many Central Indiana liquor stores. The style of the beer will be a blood orange Kolsch.  

HIP and the Central Chapter of the Indiana Native Plant Society (INPS) will be hosting a social and celebration on October 21st in coordination with the INPS Annual Conference being held on the 22nd in Carmel.  We hope you will join us at Bier Brewery in Carmel (13720 N Meridian St, Carmel, IN) at 7pm on the 21st.  You can learn more about the conference and register here.  

GIS System: 

HIP has been staying busy in 2022 tweaking ongoing programs and creating new partnerships and endeavors. Starting the first week in January, HIP put the pedal to the metal working with partners to develop a county geographic information system (GIS) platform to track invasive species surveys, species disbursement, and treatment throughout the county. The system was built via collaboration with the Hamilton County GIS department and based on a system previously used by Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation. The North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA) Mapping Standards guidelines were utilized as well.  

The system went live in April but was only able to come together so quickly due to the commitment from HIP member organizations who believed in the potential and importance of a countywide system.   With eight parks departments in the county, the ability to share information is critical. Through this system, parks departments, partner organizations, and trained volunteers can track invasive species survey information including species, density, life stage, and more. Treatment data can also be collected including geolocated tracking of primary species treated, primary and secondary treatments including treatment method, chemical type, rates, wind direction and speed, temperature, and the time spent treating each polygon or data point. Early detection and rapid response species entered into the system generate an alert to property managers and HIP leadership.  Photos can be uploaded as well. Data can be entered in the field via the Field Maps (ESRI) app on a smartphone or tablet.  As we look ahead on this project, priorities include syncing data with EDDMapS and providing support to smaller parks departments and trained volunteers in use of the system.  Parts of the collected data are available for public viewing via an online portal.   

Learn more here: https://www.hcinvasives.org/invasive-species-gis-program.html

GIS training at Raymond Worth

#invasivesbucketchallenge  

As part of our second annual Hamilton County Invasive Species Awareness Week, HIP worked with local partners to encourage citizens to “fill up to fight invasives” with an invasives bucket challenge. 

Individuals were encouraged to engage in invasive species management and fill a bucket or bag with removed invasives.  Participants were encouraged to post a photo of their invasives filled bucket on their social media using the hashtag #invasivesbucketchallenge for a chance to win prizes.  Participants could also tag friends or family members to challenge them to fill a bucket with invasives as well. Special HIP buckets with invasive garlic mustard information were made available for free from the Hamilton County Soil and Water Conservation District in Noblesville and other participating partners.  

Buckets were distributed to landowners, to Master Gardeners, and to partner organizations.  Fishers Parks Department used buckets as part of their Weed Wrangles while Noblesville Parks and Recreation placed the buckets at trailheads for trail users to use to collect garlic mustard.  Overall, the buckets themselves where quite popular but engaging people for the social media aspect was challenging.  It just takes one post or spark to make something go viral, but we didn’t quite get there this year. In the end, we believe the buckets were a worthwhile educational and functional tool.  

Learn more here: https://www.hcinvasives.org/invasivesbucketchallenge.html

Boot Brush Stations: 

HIP continues to expand its network of Boot Brush Stations. 17 stations have (or are currently being) installed.  HIP purchased stations directly from the manufacturer and worked with our local county tourism office to create customized signage. Funding for the stations included internal HIP funds, a 2021 SICIM grant, Hamilton County Tourism, and a contribution from the MIBOR Realtor Association.  The stations have been a great ‘easy win’ for HIP and the host locations allowing for passive and accessible invasives education. 

Learn more here: https://www.hcinvasives.org/bootbrush.html

Trade in program: 

HIP is offering a Native for Invasives Trade In program for the second time this year.  In 2021, we offered 3 choices of 5-gallon native trees as replacements and had enthusiastic participants but did not exhaust our available supply.  This year, we opened applications earlier and integrated the program into our annual fall native tree sale. This year, applicants have until September 18th to apply. The application is a web form where landowners submit relevant information and photos and request up to 3 native trees.  Approved applicants will receive a code that can be used to place an online order in the tree sale. Participants can choose from any of the 48 species available in the sale.  The replacement trees will be 3 gallon but, we believe the ability to choose a species that is a perfect fit for your planting area will drive more interest. We’re also hopeful that participants will add a few more trees to their order when they claim their free tree.  

Learn more here: https://www.hcinvasives.org/trade.html  

If you have any questions about these or other HIP programs, feel free to reach out to claire.lane@hamiltoncounty.in.gov.

August 2022 Invasive Plant of the Month

Japanese Chaff Flower (Achyranthes japonica)

Japanese Chaff Flower (Achyranthes japonica [Miq.] Nakai) is an herbaceous perennial plant that invades wood edges, field edges, old fields, pasturelands, ditches, and riparian and wetland areas. Japanese Chaff Flower (hereafter JCF) can be identified right now by its shrubby growth habit and bottlebrush-like flowering spikes/seedheads. A native of eastern Asia (specifically Korea, China, and Japan), this species was mostly like introduced to North America accidentally and was first spotted in Kentucky in 1981. Now, JCF has been reported in 17 Indiana counties, including all 13 counties along the Ohio River as well as Knox, Gibson, Dubois, and Lawrence Counties.

IDENTIFICATION & BIOLOGY: JCF is an herbaceous perennial plant in the Amaranthaceae family (aka Amaranth family) that reproduces prolifically via small fruits with stiff bracts. JCF has opposite, elliptical leaves with an arching venation pattern (like dogwood or Cornus spp. leaves). Its stems are ribbed with swollen nodes that tend to be reddish in color and can grow up to a height of 3 to 6 ft. In late summer (early August), the tips of the stems will start developing short, dense spikes of inconspicuous flowers that lack petals, which are reminiscent of bottlebrushes. As the fruits develop, the spikes elongate, and the fruits lie flat on the stem. The fruits mature in mid to late August and can be easily spread by clinging to the fur and feathers of mammals and birds as well as clothing. In addition, there is probably some spread by mowing and agricultural machinery as well as via waterways.

JCF flowers viewed with a hand lens

Photo by Will Drews

JCF fruits

Photo by Will Drews

JCF infestation along a wooded area in Jefferson County

Photo by Will Drews

JCF roots

Photo by Will Drews

JCF spikes of fruits

Photo by Will Drews

JCF stem

Photo by Will Drews

JCF young plants in July

Photo by Will Drews

JCF distribution

Japanese Chaff Flower distribution map courtesy of EDDMapS. 2022. Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System. The University of Georgia -Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health.

LOOK-A-LIKES:  There are a couple native look-a-likes to JCF. Before JCF flowers, it can resemble dogwood (Cornus spp.) seedlings but can be differentiated by its herbaceous, ribbed stems with swollen nodes as well as its leaves lack the “vein threads” (caused from sticky, stretchy vascular bundles) found in dogwoods. The fruiting spikes of JCF resemble the spikes of American Lopseed (Phryma leptostachya). American Lopseed can be distinguished by its smaller growth form (normally only 1-2 ft. tall) and its leaves are toothed. Lastly, there is a native perennial amaranth that can look very similar to JCF, and that is Eastern Bloodleaf (Iresine rhizomatosa), which is a state rare plant. The best way to tell JCF and Eastern Bloodleaf apart is when they are in flower/fruit. Eastern Bloodleaf lacks the bottlebrush-like flowering spikes and instead has small, whitish-silvery flowers in spike-like terminal inflorescences, more reminiscent of other Amaranth spp. In addition, the fruits of Eastern Bloodleaf are small with cottony hairs.

HABITAT & DISTRIBUTION:  JCF prefers part shade and moist to mesic soil conditions. However, it can grow in sunnier and drier conditions as well as shadier ones. It can be found along wood edges, field edges, old fields, pasturelands, ditches, and riparian and wetland areas. JCF has been reported in 17 Indiana counties, including all 13 counties along the Ohio River as well as Knox, Gibson, Dubois, and Lawrence Counties. In addition, JCF has been found in Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Ohio, West Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and even Ontario.

ECOLOGICAL THREAT: JCF produces lots of seeds (anywhere from 100 to 1,000+) per mature plant, and these seeds have a high germination rate of 95%. JCF’s seeds cling easily to fur, feathers and clothing; in addition, the seeds seem to spread along waterways, allowing JCF to spread far and wide quickly. Besides seed production, JCF is potentially rhizomatous, which would allow it to spread vegetatively as well. (JCF definitely does produce new shoots from the crowns, which can lead to shrubbier habits after mowing.) JCF also increases growth with the addition of nitrogen or increase in light but does not appear to compete well with crops present (like soybeans). Lastly, JCF tends to form dense patches and appears to have some allelopathic properties; both traits leading to the inhibition of native vegetation.

CONTROL: 

Prevention: JCF is probably inadvertently spread by clothing as well as mowing, road maintenance, or agricultural machinery.  If hiking through an area known to have JCF, please check your clothes and brush off any clinging seeds.

Manual: Can be effective for single plants or very small infestations. Young plants can be pulled or dug up. If JCF is fruiting, bagging of those spikes is recommended to prevent further spread.

Mechanical:  Mowing alone is probably not effective in controlling JCF but could limit seed production, depending on time of mowing.

Chemical: Effective for large infestations and for spot spray applications to individuals and clumps of plants.  Herbicide application should be performed while the plant is actively growing and before fruiting. Treatment in summer is preferable. The following herbicide active ingredients are recommended:

·       Glyphosate:  Use herbicides containing at least a 41% concentration of glyphosate and follow label directions to mix a 2% spray solution.  Thoroughly wet all surfaces of the plant, but not to the point of runoff.  Use caution as glyphosate is non-selective and will damage or kill any plant it contacts.

·       Triclopyr Amine Salt:  Use herbicides containing 44.4% active ingredient and follow label directions to mix a 2% spray solution. This spray will not harm grasses, only other broadleaf plants. 

IMPORTANT: The pesticide label is the law! When using any chemical control, always read the entire pesticide label carefully, follow all mixing and application instructions and use all personal protective gear and clothing specified. Contact the Office of Indiana State Chemist (OISC) for additional pesticide use requirements, restrictions or recommendations.

Maintenance:  Follow-up treatments will be required, as seeds already present in the soil will sprout.

REFERENCES & OTHER RESOURCES:

https://www.eddmaps.org/distribution/uscounty.cfm?sub=14211

https://www.se-eppc.org/wildlandweeds/pdf/Summer2011Fall2011-Evans-pp4-6.pdf

https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/fnr/fnr-477-w.pdf

http://knoxcountyswcd.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Invasive-Species-of-the-Month-for-December-2018.pdf

https://bugwoodcloud.org/mura/rtrcwma/assets/File/Management_SILinvasiveplants.pdf

LOOK-A-LIKE REFERENCES:

https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/woodland/plants/lopseed.htm

https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=275666&isprofile=0&n=1

July 2022 Invasive Plant of the Month

Chinese yam (Dioscorea polystachya)

Chinese yam (Dioscorea polystachya Turcz.) is native to China and was introduced to the United States as an ornamental vine, food source, and for medicinal purposes. It is an aggressive, twining vine that can climb over 16 feet in height. It is thought to have escaped cultivation in the mid-1980’s and has spread across the southern and eastern United States. There are limited official records in Indiana, showing distribution primarily along the Ohio River valley, but undoubtedly Chinese yam is found in more places than currently reported. Chinese yam can spread rapidly in shady areas and is prolific in floodplains and riparian corridors. Due to the cinnamon like odor of the flowers, Chinese yam is sometimes called cinnamon-vine. It is often mistakenly called air potato which is another invasive plant species. Chinese yam is on the Terrestrial Plant Rule (312 IAC 18-3-25) which designates 44 species of plants as invasive pests and makes it illegal to sell, gift, barter, exchange, distribute, transport, or introduce these plants to the state of Indiana.

IDENTIFICATION & BIOLOGY: Stems: Stems are a perennial twining vine that is slender, wiry, and green in color. Sources suggest that the vine typically grows up the stems of plants in a clockwise direction. Leaves: Leaves are simple and up to 8 inches long. The leaves are alternate proximally (close to the ground) but can become opposite as they advance up the vine. The leaves are slender heart to fiddle shaped with pronounced parallel veins. Flowers: Small yellowish-white flowers arise for the axils of the leaves. The perianth (structure formed by sepals and petals) is bell-shaped and the staminate (male) flowers are in bundles, spikes, or panicles at the end of branches. Flowers may have a fragrance similar to cinnamon. Fruits: Chinese yam produces seeds in a three-angle membranous capsule but can also reproduce asexually via axillary tubers called bulbils.

Chinese Yam Infestation

Photo by Chris Evans, University of Illinois, Bugwood.org

Chinese yam leaves are heart or fiddle shaped with pronounced parallel veins.

Photo by James H. Miller, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org

Chinese yam bulbils are a main source of plant movement.

Photo by Chris Evans, University of Illinois, Bugwood.org

Chinese Yam Distributuion

Chinese yam distribution map courtesy of EDDMapS. 2021. Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System. The University of Georgia -Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health.

Our native wild yam (pictured) has more pronounced heart shaped leaves and does not develop the bulbils.

Photo by Chris Evans, University of Illinois, Bugwood.org

LOOK-A-LIKES:  Some similarity to the native greenbriers (Smilax spp.), but greenbriers have thorns and green to purple berries with no aerial tubers. Chinese yam forms dense mats of vines whereas the native wild yam (Dioscorea villosa) does not form dense mats and does not produce aerial tubers (bulbils). Other non-native invasive vines that look similar include air potato (Dioscorea bulbifera), white yam (Dioscorea alata), and Dioscorea sansibarensis.

HABITAT & DISTRIBUTION:  Chinese yam can survive in a wide variety of habitats but is the most aggressive along the edges of rich, mesic bottomland forests, floodplains, streambanks, and fence rows. The species favors disturbance, can survive full sun to full shade but prefers intermediate light levels of forest edges. Chinese yam can move into undisturbed, shady habitats. Chinese yam has not been shown to reproduce well from seed, but the asexual production of aerial tubers is responsible or the rapid spread of the species especially in riparian areas and floodplains.   

ECOLOGICAL THREAT: Chinese yam can form dense mats or blankets of vines that overtop native vegetation and outgrow many native species. Chinese yam restricts light penetration to the forest floor and the weight of vines can break down shrubs and small trees. Once established in an area Chinese yam will displace native species, completely dominating layers within the forest and has limited value for wildlife. Chinese yam competes aggressively for sunlight and soil nutrients.  

 CONTROL: Like other invasive species, a combination of control tactics is necessary to manage Chinese yam. The most effective control is to prevent it from becoming established.  A combination of manual and mechanical methods can be used to remove the stems and vines and prevent the production of aerial tubers. The large deep growing tubers can be removed manually, but fragments or root pieces left in the soil can sprout and develop healthy new plants.  A combination of mechanical and chemical methods is typically the most effective. Foliar application of systemic herbicides (e.g., glyphosate or triclopyr) can be very effective, but care must be taken to limit damage to desirable species in the area. Foliar treatment can be successful in the spring through late summer. Treatment and monitoring an area for several years may be necessary to ensure that herbicide translocates to the tubers and eliminates them. Dormant bulbils may continue to sprout for several years making monitoring and follow up treatment critical.

IMPORTANT: The pesticide label is the law! When using any chemical control, always read the entire pesticide label carefully, follow all mixing and application instructions and use all personal protective gear and clothing specified. Contact the Office of Indiana State Chemist (OISC) for additional pesticide use requirements, restrictions or recommendations.

REFERENCES & OTHER RESOURCES:

https://www.invasive.org/gist/esadocs/documnts/diosopp.pdf

https://wiki.bugwood.org/Dioscorea

https://www.invasive.org/weedcd/pdfs/wow/chinese-yam.pdf

https://bugwoodcloud.org/mura/mipn/assets/File/Midwest%20Invasives%20Fact%20Sheets/PDF/yam.pdf

https://www.eddmaps.org/species/subject.cfm?sub=4527

LOOK-A-LIKE REFERENCES:

https://www.tnipc.org/invasive-plants/plant-details/?id=43#:~:text=Air%2Dpotato%20bulbils%20are%20up,seeds%2C%20which%20have%20questionable%20viability. 

June 2022 Invasive Plant of the Month

Porcelain-berry (Ampelopsis glandulosa var. brevipedunculata)

Porcelain-berry is a deciduous, woody perennial vine in the the grape family.  Native to northeast Asia (China, Korea, Japan, and far eastern Russia), it was introduced to the United States in the 1870’s and has been promoted as an ornamental landscape plant since then.  Though still commercially available, its presence in nurseries and garden centers has diminished greatly in recent years with increased awareness of the plant’s invasiveness. 

IDENTIFICATION AND BIOLOGY:  A member of the grape family, its leaves closely resemble those of native grapes in the genus Vitis.  The leaves are alternate and simple with coarsely toothed margins.  They typically display 3-5 deep lobes with a heart shaped base.  The undersides are sightly hairy.  The foliage has no fall coloration of note.  Tiny insignificant greenish white flowers are produced in summer.  The plant’s most ornamental attribute is its fruit, which is a distinctive multi-colored berry.  Colors range from blue, pink, purple, and cream, with several often found together.  Each berry contains 2-4 seeds. 

The vine is fast growing and can reach a height of 15-20 ft.  Non-adhesive tendrils contribute to its ability to climb aggressively.

Porcelain-berry foliage

Photo: John M. Randall, The Nature Conservancy, Bugwood.org

Porcelain-berry foliage

Photo: Karen A. Rawlins, University of Georgia, Bugwood.org

Porcelain-berry variegated foliage

Photo: Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org

Porcelain-berry flowers

Photo: Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org

Porcelain-berry foliage

Photo: Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org

Porcelain-berry fruits

Photo: Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org

Porcelain-berry infestation

Photo: Steve Manning, Invasive Plant Control, Bugwood.org

Porcelain-berry twigs/shoots

Photo: Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org

Porcelain-berry bark

Photo: Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org

Porcelain-berry tendrils

Photo: Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org

Porcelain-berry distribution

EDDMapS. 2022. Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System. The University of Georgia - Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health. Available online at http://www.eddmaps.org/; last accessed June 13, 2022.

LOOK-ALIKES:  A native species of Ampelopsis, A. arborea (common name – Pepper Vine), is common in the southern United States where its rampant growth makes it a pest to many.  Its bipinnately compound leaves are 4-8” long and composed of numerous .5-1.25” long leaflets.  It produces berries similar to those of A. g. brevipendunculata.

A cultivar of A. g. brevipendunculata called ‘Elegans’ has been promoted for landscape purposes. It has slightly smaller leaves than the species, with white and greenish white variegation. 

HABITAT AND DISTRIBUTION:  Porcelain-berry is found from New England to North Carolina and west to Indiana, and beyond. It grows well in a wide variety of soil types and settings and can be found in forest edges, river and pond banks, thickets, and woodland openings.  It is less tolerant of heavily shaded and permanently wet areas. Its hardiness is listed as Zone 4 to 8.

ECOLOGICAL THREAT:  Porcelain-berry overtakes other vegetation and can easily shade out native trees and shrubs.  It can form thick monocultures, thereby reducing species diversity and wildlife habitat.

Porcelain-berry spreads aggressively by seed and vegetatively.  The colorful fruits attract birds and small animals that eat the berries and disperse the seeds in their droppings.  Seeds germinate readily, especially after natural and human disturbance.  Seeds can remain viable in the soil for several years.  It spreads vegetatively by resprouting from roots, particularly in response to cutting of above ground growth.  Porcelain-berry has been found growing downstream from established patches, suggesting that seeds may be water dispersed.

It is a banned species in the states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and New York.

CONTROL:

Prevention – Do not plant.  Remove existing plantings. 

Manual – Hand pulling should be done before fruiting to prevent the production and dispersal of seeds.  All roots should be removed.  Remnant root pieces will easily sprout.  Plants pulled while in fruit should be bagged and destroyed. 

Chemical – Chemical control in combination with manual methods is effective, but ongoing monitoring of infestation sites, with repeat treatments will be necessary.  Systemic herbicides triclopyr and glyphosate have been successful.  They should be applied in summer or fall to foliage.  Or, the plants can be cut first with application applied to the regrowth.

IMPORTANT: The pesticide label is the law! When using any chemical control, always read the entire pesticide label carefully, follow all mixing and application instructions and use all personal protective gear and clothing specified. Contact the Office of Indiana State Chemist (OISC) for additional pesticide use requirements, restrictions, or recommendations.

We need more information about the spread of porcelain-berry in Indiana! To report it or other invasive species in a location where it has escaped cultivation, use EDDMapS: Early Detection and Distribution Mapping System (EDDMapS): https://www.eddmaps.org/report/

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND RESOURCES:

https://www.mda.state.mn.us/plants/pestmanagement/weedcontrol/noxiouslist/porcelainberry

https://www.invasive.org/browse/subinfo.cfm?sub=78266

https://woodyinvasives.org/woody-invasive-species/porcelain-berry/

https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/ampelopsis-brevipedunculata/

https://extension.umn.edu/identify-invasive-species/porcelain-berry

https://www.invasiveplantatlas.org/subject.html?sub=78266

https://www.eddmaps.org/distribution/uscounty.cfm?sub=78266

LOOK-ALIKES:

Pepper vine: https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=NEAR5

May 2022 Invasive Plant of the Month

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)

Mugwort, Artemisia vulgaris, is a perennial plant that has spread throughout North America but is most commonly found in the eastern US and Canada. Originally from Europe and eastern Asia, it may have arrived in ballast soils of ships as early as the 16th century. Mugwort commonly invades degraded areas such as old fields, roadsides, parking lots, forest edges and ditches, and spreads aggressively primarily by rhizomes. It is one of the 44 species listed in the Indiana Terrestrial Plant Rule, prohibiting its sale and distribution, and is considered an invasive species in many states. Mugwort has a long history of being used as a medicinal and culinary herb, and contributes significantly to hay fever symptoms in areas where it is abundant.

IDENTIFICATION & BIOLOGY: A member of the Aster family, mugwort is an herbaceous perennial with branched, purplish-brown stems and grows to a height of 2-5 ft. Ascending stems are covered with short hairs. The root system is extensive though shallow (to 20 cm in depth), with many branching rhizomes up to 1 cm in diameter. Research has shown that plants can regenerate from rhizome fragments as small as 2 cm and possibly smaller. Leaves: Leaf shape can vary depending on the maturity and location of leaves on the plant. Mugwort has simple, lobed leaves that are papery and dark green on the upper surface and gray underneath with silvery-white hairs. Leaves near the base are elliptic and oblong, lobed deeply almost to the midrib; leaves midstem are elliptic to ovate, 1.2-4 in long by 0.6-2.4 in wide and lobed pinnately or bipinnately. Leaves are alternate and margins may be serrated. Leaves emit a spicy scent when crushed. Flowers: Flowers are inconspicuous clusters at the top of the plant containing disk flowers only (lacking petals), and bloom in late summer to early fall. Color changes from white/green to purplish as the season advances. Fruits: Many small obovate or ovate achenes (one-seeded fruits containing a single seed) develop and mature from August to October. Seeds are wind dispersed and a single plant can produce a large amount of seeds, but some biotypes do not produce viable seed.

Mugwort flowers

Ohio State Weed Lab, The Ohio State University, Bugwood.org

Mugwort plant flowering

Robert Videki, Doronicum Kft., Bugwood.org

Mugwort foliage

Ohio State Weed Lab, The Ohio State University, Bugwood.org

Mugwort leaf

Ohio State Weed Lab, The Ohio State University, Bugwood.org

Mugwort leaf variations

Ohio State Weed Lab, The Ohio State University, Bugwood.org

Mugwort plant in flower

Ohio State Weed Lab, The Ohio State University, Bugwood.org

Mugwort young plant

Ohio State Weed Lab, The Ohio State University, Bugwood.org

Mugwort stem and foliage

Ohio State Weed Lab, The Ohio State University, Bugwood.org

Mugwort distribution map

Courtesy of EDDMapS, 2022

LOOK-A-LIKES: Many weedy and ornamental species have similar mature foliage, including common ragweed ( Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.) and cultivated chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum spp.). However, both common ragweed and cultivated chrysanthemum lack the silvery-white hairs on the lower surface of the leaves.

HABITAT & DISTRIBUTION Mugwort commonly invades degraded areas such as old fields, roadsides, parking lots, forest edges and ditches, and spreads aggressively primarily by rhizomes. It is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures and conditions, with a slight preference for moist soils.

ECOLOGICAL THREAT: Mugwort is rhizomatous, and aggressively produces vegetative colonies of plants. These colonies can crowd out and displace native species, specifically those that thrive in sunny, open habitat, and can disrupt succession in natural areas. It is also allelopathic, affecting the soil chemistry and organisms, and deterring other species from growing there.

ECONOMIC THREAT: Mugwort is considered a troublesome pest in the nursery industry, due to its ability to infest nursery stock and field-grown ornamental crops (trees, shrubs, and other herbaceous ornamentals), and spreads to urban landscapes. The US nursery industry has considered mugwort to be in their top 10 most serious weeds. It has become very problematic in the eastern US, expanding beyond ornamental nurseries to pastures as well as corn, cotton, and soybean fields.

CONTROL: Since this species thrives along roadsides and areas that may be mowed, cleaning equipment can help to decrease the spread. Cutting and pulling can stimulate growth, and even a small piece of the plant can resprout, so tilling is not recommended. Using a systemic, non-selective, herbicide (ex. glyphosate) can be effective, but care must be taken to avoid desirable plants. It is most effective if applied in late summer or early fall. More selective herbicides, such as Triclopyr or clopyralid, have shown to be effective and if applied at proper rates will not harm grasses and sedges. A single herbicide application will likely not provide complete eradication, but will suppress growth for the following season. A combination of digging, pulling, mowing, and herbicide application may be most effective. Mowing is most effective in early spring and early fall, before it goes to seed. Plant matter that is dug or removed will need to be disposed of properly to ensure it doesn’t resprout.

IMPORTANT: The pesticide label is the law! When using any chemical control, always read the entire pesticide label carefully, follow all mixing and application instructions and use all personal protective gear and clothing specified. Contact the Office of Indiana State Chemist (OISC) for additional pesticide use requirements, restrictions, or recommendations.

To report an invasive species in a location where it has escaped cultivation:

Early Detection and Distribution Mapping System (EDDMapS): https://www.eddmaps.org/report/

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND RESOURCES:

https://cipwg.uconn.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/244/2016/10/Mugwort-Poster-10-10-16-36x48Landscaperevised.pdf

https://weedecology.css.cornell.edu/pubs/Artemisia%20CanJPlSci.%20article.pdf

https://www.eddmaps.org/species/subject.cfm?sub=5148

https://www.invasiveplantatlas.org/subject.html?sub=5148

https://www.invasive.org/browse/subinfo.cfm?sub=5148

https://wiki.bugwood.org/Artemisia_vulgaris/NJ#Look-alikes

https://www.lhprism.org/species/artemisia-vulgaris

https://www.purdue.edu/hla/sites/yardandgarden/mugwort-wormwood-by-either-name-a-real-problem/

http://ccenassau.org/environment/invasive-plants/mugwort

https://nystateparks.blog/2018/07/12/invasive-species-spotlight-mugwort/

https://extension.wvu.edu/lawn-gardening-pests/weeds/mugwort

https://www.in.gov/dnr/rules-and-regulations/invasive-species/terrestrial-invasive-species-plants/

https://nyis.info/invasive_species/mugwort-draft/

REFERENCES:

Barney, J.N. and A. DiTommaso. 2003. The biology of Canadian weeds. 118. Artemisia vulgaris L. Canadian Journal of Plant Science 83:205-215, https://doi.org/10.4141/P01-098

Bradley, K.W. and E.S. Hagood, Jr. 2002. Evaluation of selected herbicides and rates for long-term mugwort ( Artemisia vulgaris ) control. Weed Technol. 16:164–170, https://doi.org/10.1614/0890-037X(2002)016[0164:EOSHAR]2.0.CO;2  

Klingeman, William E., et al. “Regeneration of Mugwort (Artemisia Vulgaris) from Rhizome Sections in Sand, Pine Bark, and Soil Substrates.” Journal of Environmental Horticulture, vol. 22, no. 3, 2004, pp. 139–143., https://doi.org/10.24266/0738-2898-22.3.139.

Fore! An Invasive Species Awareness Project

In the summer of 2021, the Clark County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) was contacted by the Southern Indiana (SOIN) Disc Golf Club, who maintain a disc golf course in Lapping Park in Clarksville, IN. The group was worried about the degradation of their course due to the foot traffic it receives from players, and visitors to the park who use it as a hiking trail. Large areas of the course have lost vegetation due to all the activity. An environmentally conscious group, the SOIN Disc Golf Club are aware of invasive species and were concerned that invasives would take over the course if site conditions worsened. A site visit from Floyd County Purdue Extension, Clark County SWCD, and SICIM’s South Central Regional Specialist, Kaila Knies, confirmed a heavy infestation of Japanese Stiltgrass and other invasive species. The site visit also confirmed the group’s concerns regarding erosion. Control methods were recommended, but the club wanted to do more than just control. They wanted to educate visitors to the course about the environmental improvements they were making. Thus, this project was born!

Volunteers removing invasive species and improving trails in the park, photo by Kaila Knies

The SOIN Disc Golf Club partnered up with Clark County SWCD, Floyd County Purdue Extension, SICIM, Clarksville Parks and Recreation, Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Clark County Harmful Invasives Removal Project (CCHIRP), and The Floyd County Native Habitat Restoration Team (FCNHRT) to apply for a grant from the Friends of the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) to install native plant gardens along the disc golf course to combat erosion, restore habitat, and alter the walking paths of players and visitors. The NACD only funds eight projects per year across the nation. In early 2022, they received word that the project was funded!

The gardens will be located at the disc golf course holes 1, 5, 6, 11 and 17. Holes 1 and 5 were selected because they are highly visible to the public just passing by the course. Holes 6, 11, and 17 were selected because they have erosion issues that would benefit from native plantings. A mix of native trees, shrubs, and plants will be found in the gardens. A team of professionals from SICIM, DNR, and Floyd County Purdue Extension met with the SOIN Disc Golf Club, Clark County SWCD, and Clarksville Parks and Recreation to brainstorm a plant list for each site. Plants were selected specifically for the conditions present at each site. The garden at hole 1 is at the front of the course and is most visible to the public. It is the largest of the gardens and will house native shrubs such as smooth hydrangea and common witch-hazel as well as native herbaceous plants such as zigzag goldenrod. The garden at hole 5 will be planted entirely with native herbaceous plants such as blue lobelia and penstemon. hole 6 will be planted with native understory tree species such as redbud due to the erosion taking place at the site. Native ferns such as cinnamon fern will populate holes 11 and 17 as they are heavily shaded, and the soil stays moist year-round.

SOIN Disc Golf Club course

Additionally, this project will include two workshops. A native plant workshop on Tuesday, May 24, 2022, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Lapping Park disc golf course Clarksville, IN. A short presentation on native plants will be given at the start of the workshop and then participants can assist in planting the five gardens. The second workshop will be focused on invasive plant identification and include a Weed Wrangle which is taking place on Thursday, September 15, 2022, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Garry E. Cavan Park. in Georgetown, IN. They will also be “wrangling” invasive plants from the landscape surrounding the disc golf course. Partner staff will assist participants in invasive identification and control methods. If you would like more information on this project please reach out to the Clark County SWCD at 812-256-2330 ext. 3.

Diversity is the Spice of Life, Even in Natural Areas!

By: Gillian Field, originally published in the Herald Times on April 16, 2022

Indiana deciduous forests are some of the most diverse forests on our planet. They are made up of broad-leaved upper story trees, understory shrubs, wildflowers and unique wildlife. Autumn Brunelle, the Naturalist with Monroe County Parks and Recreation, helps to illuminate forest-diversity when she explains “something as simple as tree height can make a huge difference in the health of a forest.”

She further clarifies that “by focusing in and observing one small part of a forest, such as differences in tree height, we begin to see the complex interconnectedness within forest systems. In terms of forest strength and survival, all elements of the eco-system serve a purpose, whether that’s tree age, how trees are used by wildlife, or the fungi that is so important to forest regeneration.” In her example of tree height, Autumn notes “that when we focus in on the tallest trees in the forest, you’ll see that these tall trees provide shade for understory plants, create a taller vantage point to help birds of prey hunt better, and you’ll even see how they are able to protect younger or smaller trees from storm and wind damage. Ultimately, a diverse forest also has a higher chance of surviving disease and pests, and it provides countless food and shelter options for wildlife.”

Hoosier forests, as with all native habitat, have an intricacy that has evolved over millions of years. Nevertheless, a forest’s biodiversity and ability to regenerate is under threat by the recent introduction of non-native species. These are species, from other continents, that have not evolved with our plant species, soil biota, fungi, insect, bird and other wildlife populations. As Autumn Brunelle describes, “not all species are interested in living together.”

Callery pear taking over forests, photo courtesy of Indiana Native Plant Society

A specific example of a species that is not a welcome addition to the Hoosier forest family is Callery pear and all of its marketed cultivars. Autumn defines them as “an early bloomer and a quick grower.” Without insect and mammal herbivores to keep their growth in check, and without the intricate services native plant species offer that might offset their infestation, “Callery pears are great at creating ‘Callery Pear ONLY’ zones.”

Autumn describes a “Callery Pear ONLY” zone:  “Though beautiful while flowering, having an area made up of one species, that will grow to be the same size and height, with shared weaknesses, and with limited environmental benefits, will only result in a weak, disease prone, minimal wildlife zone.”

Callery pear flowers and leaves, photo courtesy of MC-IRIS

The consequence of allowing Callery pear to continue to grow and spread long distances from their urban landscape plantings has impacted our forests and wetland diversity. You can make a positive difference to counter this harmful trend by recognizing invasive Callery pear growing on your property and replacing them with native trees. Replace it with small, medium and tall native trees. Visit Monroe County Identify and Reduce Invasive Species website for information on Callery pear replacement tree species: Serviceberry (Amelanchier laevis and A. arborea), redbud (Cercis canadensis), American hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana), hop hornbeam (Ostrya virginiana), pagoda dogwood (Cornus alternifolia).

Due to spreading infestations, Callery Pear is no longer planted by the City of Bloomington, and it is disallowed in new developments by the City's Unified Development Ordinance. Erin Hatch, Urban Forester with the City of Bloomington, is the best person to contact to remove Callery pear located in sidewalk green strips and other right-of-way areas. These are considered city trees. Erin notes, “If adjacent property owners wish to conduct tree work, such as removal of these trees, at their own cost, they can submit a tree work permit application.” Visit here for more information: https://bloomington.in.gov/about/trees.

Gillian Field is a member of MC-IRIS, also known as Monroe County — Identify and Reduce Invasive Species, a coalition of citizens aimed at reducing the environmental and economic impact of invasive plant species in the county.

Spring CISMA Lunch & Network

Have you hit the wall yet? Spring is beautiful, but also hard. Join us to celebrate some CISMA accomplishments you are proud of and then we’ll jump into a fun round robin rant and solve some of our most pressing issues with sustainability. We’re in this together!

Date: Thursday, May 19, 2022

Time: 12:15pm-1:15pm (ET)

Location: Virtual

Click here to register! Once you register, you will receive a confirmation email with access to a virtual link. contact Stephanie@sicim.info with questions!

April 2022 Invasive Plant of the Month

Black Swallow-wort (Vincetoxicum nigrum or Cynanchum louiseae) and Pale Swallow-wort (Vincetoxicum rossicum or Cynanchum rossicum)

The swallow-worts (also called dog-strangling vine) are non-native, invasive twining vines. The two species of principle concern in North America are black and pale swallow-wort. Black swallow-wort is native to southwest Europe; pale swallow-wort is native to Ukraine and parts of Russia. Both were introduced to North America in the 1800s as potential ornamental plants. However, they never became popular for gardening.

IDENTIFICATION & BIOLOGY:  Stems: Swallow-worts are perennial herbaceous plants. Their vines grow vigorously and twine around and climb anything nearby, such as trees and shrubs or even man-made structures. If there is nothing else to climb, neighboring swallow-wort vines will twine around one another, often forming thick “ropes”. Vines can be 3 to 6½ feet in length. Leaves: Their leaves are narrowly oval to heart-shaped, 2 to 5 inches long and 1 to 2½ inches wide, forming a long, sharp-pointed tip, with smooth margins. Leaves are shiny and dark green and grow in an opposite arrangement along the vine. Flowers: Small, five-petalled flowers grow in tight clusters that attach at the base of leaves. Black swallow-wort flowers are dark purple, with fine, light hairs, and bluntly triangular petals that are about as wide as they are long. Pale swallow-wort flowers range from pink to deep burgundy in color with narrow petals that are longer than they are wide. Blooming begins from mid to late May for pale swallow-wort, peaking in early to mid-June. For black swallow-wort, blooming peaks from mid to late June. For shade-growing plants, bloom may be delayed up to one month. Fruits: Fruits are milkweed-type pods, 1½ to 3 inches long, that turn from green to brown as they mature. When fully ripe, they split open, revealing numerous flat, brown seeds, each with downy hairs attached, allowing for their dispersal on the wind. Seeds may be released for dispersal beginning mid-July for pale swallow-wort and mid-August for black swallow-wort. Seed dispersal may continue through October.

Black Swallow-wort Distribution Map

Map courtesy of EDDMapS. 2021

Black Swallow-wort Opposite Leaves and Flowers

Photo by Emma Erler, University of New Hampshire, Bugwood.org

Black Swallow-wort Twining Vines and Flowers

Photo by Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org

Pale Swallow-wort Flowers

Photo by Rob Routledge, Sault College, Bugwood.org

Pale Swallow-wort Distribution Map

Map courtesy of EDDMapS, 2021

Swallow-wort Fruits

Photo by Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org

Dry Swallow-wort Fruits and Seeds

Photo by Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org

Swallow-wort infestation

Photo by David Nisbet, Invasive Species Center, Bugwood.org

LOOK-A-LIKES: The black and pale swallow-worts may be confused with honeyvine (Cynanchum laeve, also called sandvine, bluevine milkweed, and smooth swallow-wort), a native perennial herbaceous vine growing in habitats similar to those where swallow-worts are commonly found. It has a similar twining vine growth habit and opposite, heart-shaped leaves. The flower has five petals, as do the swallow-worts, but the petals are white or sometimes white, tipped with pink. Honeyvine produces the milkweed-like seed pod and flat seeds with attached downy hairs, similar to the swallow-worts. Other possible look-a-likes include our native milkweeds (Aesclepias), which are in the same family as swallow-worts (Apocynaceae). Milkweed species often have opposite leaf arrangement and similar-looking fruit pods and seeds, but are upright herbaceous plants, not vines, and have a milky sap, as opposed to the clear sap of the swallow-worts. Bindweeds (Convolvulus) and morning glories (Ipomoea) are herbaceous twining vines like swallow-wort, but have alternate leaf arrangement and large, showy horn or funnel-shaped flowers.

HABITAT & DISTRIBUTION:   Swallow-worts thrive in a wide range of growing conditions, soil types and soil pH. They are shade-tolerant and thrive best growing in full sun to partial shade. Heavy shade was found to greatly reduce swallow-wort seedling survival; partial shade did not. They are most commonly found growing in disturbed environments such as roadsides, old fields, pastures, forest edges, and similar habitats. Black swallow-wort is currently the most widely distributed of the two species in North America and occurs in Northeastern and Upper Midwest states and Ontario, including relatively small populations in scattered counties in central and northern Indiana. As of the writing of this, pale swallow-wort occurs primarily in Northeastern states, Michigan and southern Canada. Populations are found in Michigan counties bordering northern Indiana, but none have been reported for Indiana. It’s likely that the swallow-worts are more widely distributed than currently reported on EDDMapS online invasive species geodatabase reporting system.

ECOLOGICAL THREAT: Swallow-wort is highly invasive. Because of its rapid growth and abundant viable seed production, swallow-wort vines quickly twine around and climb neighboring plants, overwhelming them by physically shading them, weighing them down, causing stem breakage, and competing for moisture and nutrients. After years of unchecked growth and spread it can cover large areas with a dense, tangled thicket where little else can live. It invades fields, fence rows, woodland edges and even shaded forest environments. It threatens pollinator habitat and rare plant communities such as glades, fens, prairie remnants and savannahs. Forest regeneration and conservation tree plantings may also be harmed. Swallow-wort can invade pastures and can be toxic to livestock if consumed in large enough quantities. There is evidence that swallow-wort produces an allelopathic effect, secreting a chemical into the soil that inhibits the growth of neighboring plants. They also produce chemicals that are distasteful to many insects and even toxic to some, including monarch butterfly larvae.

CONTROL: Since the swallow-worts are not yet well established in Indiana, greater effort should be made to increase awareness of them among land/natural resource managers and landowners. Informed resource managers and landowners can assist in identifying new populations so we can more accurately determine their distribution and map their occurrences. For well-established populations and the management of lands and natural resources near them, a management plan should be developed based on the following principles: 1) Prevention of spread; 2) Early detection of and rapid response to new populations; and 3) Properly timed and targeted control measures that consider long-term effectiveness, impact on non-target or desirable species, soil/site disturbance, cost, and available labor and equipment.

Herbicide, applied as a foliar spray, is the most practical, effective, and economical means of controlling swallow-wort. Spraying should be done around the time that flowering begins and small seedpods start developing. A single herbicide application will likely not provide complete eradication of swallow-wort. The site should be monitored to determine treatment effectiveness and to identify individuals that were missed or otherwise survived. A follow-up spraying should be done later in the summer. Triclopyr and glyphosate are both effective at controlling established swallow-wort plants. Triclopyr is a broadleaf-specific herbicide and applied at proper rates will not harm grasses and sedges. Glyphosate is a broad-spectrum herbicide and will damage all classes of plants. On degraded sites lacking high-quality plant communities, glyphosate is the cost-effective choice. Where desirable grasses and other monocot plants occur, triclopyr provides more selective control. A non-ionic surfactant or seed oil adjuvant should be used to increase herbicide uptake. For more detailed information on management and control of swallow-wort see Purdue Cooperative Extension Service publication, FNR-620-W, Invasive plant series: swallow-worts (link listed below).

To report an invasive species location:

Early Detection and Distribution Mapping System (EDDMapS): https://www.eddmaps.org/report/

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/FNR/FNR-620-W.pdf

https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/208963-Vincetoxicum-nigrum

https://mnfi.anr.msu.edu/invasive-species/Swallow-wortBCP.pdf

https://www.invasive.org/browse/subinfo.cfm?sub=3398

https://www.invasive.org/browse/subinfo.cfm?sub=4260

https://www.in.gov/dnr/rules-and-regulations/invasive-species/terrestrial-invasive-species-plants/

IMAGE CREDITS:

Black Swallow-wort opposite leaves and flowers, photo by Emma Erler, University of New Hampshire, Bugwood.org

Black Swallow-wort twining, “rope-like” vines and flowers, photo by Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org

Pale swallow-wort flowers, photo by Rob Routledge, Sault College, Bugwood.org

Swallow-wort fruits, photo by Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org

Dry swallow-wort fruits and seeds, photo by Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org

Swallow-wort infestation, photo by David Nisbet, Invasive Species Centre, Bugwood.org

Black swallow-wort distribution map courtesy of EDDMapS. 2021. Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System. The University of Georgia -Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health. Available online at https://www.eddmaps.org/distribution/uscounty.cfm?sub=3398

Pale swallow-wort distribution map courtesy of EDDMapS. 2021. Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System. The University of Georgia -Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health. Available online at https://www.eddmaps.org/distribution/uscounty.cfm?sub=4260

REFERENCES:

Anon. Invasive species alert: black swallow-wort (Cynanchum louisea) and pale swallow-wort Cynanchum rossicum). Monarch Joint Venture. www.monarchjointventure.org 2 p.

Anon. 2012. Black and pale swallow-worts. Invasive Species – Best Control Practices series. Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources, Michigan Natural Feature Inventory. 7p.

Averill, K.M., A. DiTommaso, and S.H. Morris. 2008. Response of pale swallow-wort (Vincetoxicum rossicum) to triclopyr application and clipping. Invasive Plant Science and Management 2008 1:196-206.

Douglass, C.H., L.A. Weston, and A. DiTommaso. 2009. Chapter 13, Black and pale swallow-wort (Vincetoxicum nigrum and V. rossicum): The biology and ecology of two perennial, exotic and invasive vines. Pp. 261-277. In: Inderjit ed. Vol. 5. Management of Invasive Weeds, 363 p. In: J.A. Drake ed. Invading Nature – Springer Series in Invasion Ecology. Springer Science, Dordrecht, Netherlands.

Magidow, L.C., A DiTommaso, Q. Ketterings, C.L. Mohler, and L.R. Milbrath. 2013. Emergence and performance of two invasive swallowworts (Vincetoxicum spp.) in contrasting soil types and soil pH. Invasive Plant Science and Management 2013 6:281-291.

McKague, C.I. and N. Cappuccino. 2005. Response of pale swallow-wort, Vincetoxicum rossicum, following aboveground tissue loss: implications for the timing of mechanical control. Canadian Field-Naturalist 119(4):525-531.

Mervosh, T.L. and D. Gumbart. 2015. Cutting and herbicide treatments for control of Oriental bittersweet, pale swallow-wort and Morrow’s honeysuckle. Natural Areas Journal 35(2):256-265.

Milbrath, L.R. A.S. Davis, and J Biazzo. 2017. Demography of invasive black and pale swallow-wort populations in New York. Northeast Naturalist 24(1):37-53.

Musings from your Project Coordinator (PC) - The pulse of life

24 March 2022

The Pulse of Life

Most of us seem to look forward to seasons and yearn for changes that arrive with the next one. Our souls rejuvenate and we hustle about with different happenings that each one brings. March is roaring in like a lion in my neck of the woods and April showers appear to be upon us, revealing what a blessing nature is. These changes nurture each of our souls and inspire us to pursue various activities throughout the year. This particular season brings more vigorous chores and activities just as the birds are doing now outside my window.

My brain is telling me it’s the season to ensure my land is part of the cycle of life that is bustling about right now. Land management that celebrates the bounty of organisms that live in Indiana. Land management that supports successful nests of bluebirds, chickadees, phoebes and yes, even the red-bellied woodpecker that is battling with me over the territorial use of my gutter. These are all signals that I need to get outside and take care of my land to ensure there is adequate food for birds and other wildlife to raise their young for the year. It takes thousands and thousands of insects to raise just one nest of chickadees so I have my work cut out for me.

Research shows us (and we can observe this if we look) that insects proliferate where native plants are plenty. We brought nonnative plants into our landscapes because they are not eaten or damaged by our native insects. Unfortunately, these pristine gardens and lawns filled with nonnatives are not zones of life. When nonnative plants spread and take over areas outside of our landscapes, they cause even more harm, and are now labeled invasive species. Insects, that feed our birds, salamanders and so many other creatures, that need local flora are then surrounded by plants they cannot eat. If we choose to use native plants in our landscapes, our cherished personal spaces become livable landscapes that support life, likely supporting life on levels we cannot see or even understand. This knowledge inspires me to get out outside, remove invasive plants and see how much life my land can support; to know that I and my actions are not part of the problem, but are part of a bountiful future and part of the planet as it was designed.

Happy Spring Everyone. Let’s get out there and work like it means something because it does, our work means life (or death) for many.

Don’t forget to check out our resources on our website (www.sicim.info), sign up for a free landowner survey and participate or host a Weed Wrangle®. I guarantee you will have fun and feel invigorated knowing you are working alongside so many others for your benefit as well as your favorite wildlife.

Together - Let’s do this!

March 2022 Invasive Plant of the Month

Wild Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa L.)

Wild Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa L.) is an herbaceous biennial plant that easily invades disturbed/early successional sites and is typically found along wood edges, prairie plantings, old fields, pasturelands, ditches, riparian areas, and roadsides. Wild Parsnip seedlings germinate throughout the growing season to early Fall and overwinter as a basal rosette of leaves. The following spring (around late April to May), they bolt, producing celery-like stems and then yellow florets in compound umbels. These flowers develop into flat dry fruits called schizocarps and readily burst open when mature. A native of eastern Europe and Western Asia, this species was introduced to North America as a culinary plant and has been reported in all but 4 Indiana counties. WARNING: Some people develop serious photodermitis when exposed to the leaves and sap of the plant.

Wild parsnip distribution map

Wild Parsnip distribution map courtesy of EDDMapS. 2022. Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System. The University of Georgia -Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health. Available online at http://www.eddmaps.org

Wild parsnip basal rosette

Photo by Will Drews

Wild parsnip compound umbels

Photo by Will Drews

Wild parsnip field

Photo by Will Drews

Wild parsnip mature leaf and stem

Photo by Will Drews

Wild parsnip seeds

Photo by Will Drews

Wild parsnip seedling

Photo by Will Drews

IDENTIFICATION & BIOLOGY:  Wild Parsnip is a biennial plant in the Apiaceae family (aka Celery family) that reproduces prolifically via flat, dry fruits. Wild Parsnip starts off as a basal rosette of divided, compound leaves.  After bolting, it produces celery-like stems (growing up to 7 ft tall) with alternate, divided leaves (with around 9 leaflets per leaf) and then small yellow flowers in compound umbels. These flowers develop into flat dry fruits called schizocarps and readily dehisce when mature. The fruits mature in mid to late summer and can be easily spread by mowing and agricultural machinery as well as some dispersal by birds, small mammals, wind, and water.

LOOK-A-LIKES:  There are no native plant look-a-likes to Wild Parsnip once it has bolted. As a seedling, Wild Parsnip can resemble Golden Alexanders (Zizia aurea). Golden Alexanders can be differentiated by having few leaflets per compound leaf, around 3-5 (instead of the ~9 that Wild Parsnip normally has).

HABITAT & DISTRIBUTION:  Wild Parsnip prefers full sun to part shade and moist to mesic soil conditions.  It can be found in disturbed areas wood edges, prairie plantings, old fields, pasturelands, ditches, riparian areas, and roadsides.  It has been reported in has been reported in all but 4 Indiana counties and is found in throughout the Midwest, Great Plains, Mid-Atlantic, and Northeastern US states.

ECOLOGICAL THREAT: Wild Parsnip can form dense stands in disturbed areas and set back desired plant growth, especially in new plantings. An individual plant can produce over 2,000 seeds, and those seeds can persist in the soil for up to 4 years. Because of the many methods of dispersal (via mowing and agricultural machinery as well as some dispersal by birds, small mammals, wind, and water), Wild Parsnip can expand its populations quickly and easily produce satellite populations.

CONTROL: 

WARNING: Some people develop serious photodermitis when exposed to the leaves and sap of the plant. Use caution when managing this plant.

Prevention: Wild Parsnip often is inadvertently spread by mowing, road maintenance, or agricultural machinery.  Mow infested areas along roadsides, ditch banks, forest and field edges before seed matures.  Also, do not plant Wild Parsnip seeds!

Manual: Can be effective for single plants or very small infestations. Young plants can be pulled or dug up. Older plants, before flowering, can be controlled by severing the taproot below ground. Always wear protective clothing, including gloves and eye protection.

Mechanical:  Continuous mowing can also be used but beware that mowing only once or twice per year may actually increase Wild Parsnip populations. Always wear protective clothing, including gloves and eye protection.

Chemical: Effective for large infestations and for spot spray applications to individuals and clumps of plants.  Herbicide application should be performed while the plant is actively growing and before flowering. This may require at least two rounds of foliar treatments to get stragglers. Treatment in fall is preferrable, but individuals can be treated in the early spring as well. The following herbicide active ingredients are recommended:

·       Glyphosate:  Use herbicides containing at least a 41% concentration of glyphosate and follow label directions to mix a 2% spray solution.  Thoroughly wet all surfaces of the plant, but not to the point of runoff.  Use caution as glyphosate is non-selective and will damage or kill any plant it contacts.

·       2,4-D Amine Salt:  Use herbicides containing 46.8% active ingredient and follow label directions to mix a 1% spray solution. This spray will not harm grasses, only other broadleaf plants. 

IMPORTANT: The pesticide label is the law! When using any chemical control, always read the entire pesticide label carefully, follow all mixing and application instructions and use all personal protective gear and clothing specified. Contact the Office of Indiana State Chemist (OISC) for additional pesticide use requirements, restrictions or recommendations.

Maintenance:  Follow-up treatments will be required, as seeds already present in the soil will sprout.

REFERENCES & OTHER RESOURCES:

https://www.eddmaps.org/distribution/uscounty.cfm?sub=6147

https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/weeds/plants/wild_parsnip.htm

https://www.entm.purdue.edu/iisc/pdf/plants/Pastinaca_sativa.pdf

https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Invasives/fact/WildParsnip.html

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0145/8808/4272/files/A3924-15.pdf  

LOOK-A-LIKE REFERENCES:

https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/gld_alexanderx.htm

Reflecting: What Does Our Work Mean to Us?

As we finished out Invasive Species Week, we asked ourselves, “why do we do this?” Why do we remove invasive species and work to improve Indiana habitats? It’s not an easy job. There are setbacks. Not enough time, or people power, or supplies. It is physically and mentally demanding. It can be very rewarding, but sometimes that reward takes a long time to get to. While all of us can generally say it is because we care about restoring and protecting our natural areas, everyone has a deeper reason, a more personal “why”. So SICIM staff reflected on their “why” and we thought we’d share them with you. What is YOUR “why”?

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“My "why" is my two-year-old son. I manage invasive plant species because I want to conserve land for future generations.”

-Mandi Glanz, Northwest Regional Specialist

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“I love the animals in the natural areas of Northern Indiana and I love finding them in their native habitat.  I manage invasive species so that the critters I've loved from my childhood can continue to prosper and thrive for my children, and their children, and their children to discover and enjoy just as I have.”

-Dugan Julian, Northeast Regional Specialist

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“My "why" has a lot to do with family. As a kid and now as an adult the outdoors has always been my escape and it's how my family bonds with one another. I want to preserve the special places I spent so much time in as a kid and protect the native plant communities that call those places home.”

-Kaila Knies, South Central Regional Specialist

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My “why” is the smaller majority - a term I’m borrowing from one of my favorite nature photographers and entomologists, Piotr Naskrecki. Those lesser-known and underappreciated critters that make our world go ‘round without getting much notice or appreciation from us: insects, spiders, and other invertebrates. They play an extremely important role in our survival on the planet, and many are specialists relying on a certain plant or habitat for part of or possibly their entire lives. If those places or plants disappear, so do they, and so do the ecosystem services that they provide for us. It’s a partnership and I’m trying to hold up my end of the bargain.”

-Stephanie Schuck, Executive Director

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“I do this because: 1) We have been entrusted with this planet and we are just beginning to understand the complexity, diversity, and interconnectedness of all things on it; 2) it’s an incredible and inspiring place; and 3) our children and their children not only need to, but deserve to love and care for this amazing place… you first have to know about something to love and care for it.”

-Dawn Slack, III Project Coordinator

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“I manage invasives because turtles can't carry a chainsaw.”

-Amber Slaughterbeck, West Central Regional Specialist

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“I have always felt most at home among the trees and you work to protect your home.”

-Liz Yetter, East Central Regional Specialist 

Indiana Invasive Species Awareness Week: What Plant is This?

In honor of Indiana Invasive Species Awareness Week, we are highlighting some lesser known species that you need to be on the lookout for! These species have shown invasive tendencies but we don’t have a clear picture of their distribution in Indiana. If you see any of them growing in natural areas, be sure to report them in EDDMaps so that we can get a clearer understanding of their location and spread.

By: Mandi Glanz

Do you know what plant this is?

If you said yellow groove bamboo, you are correct!

We’ve highlighted this plant a couple of time over the years, and most recently it was our Invasive Plant of the Month for January 2022, so we thought we’d quiz you! Yellow groove bamboo (Phyllostachys aureosulcata) is a species of running bamboo that is invasive to this area, meaning it is non-native and it causes ecological harm to our natural landscapes. Yellow groove bamboo is one of the fastest growing plants on Earth; it can quickly spread and form monocultures in natural areas that outcompete native plant species, decrease biodiversity, and negatively impact wildlife habitat. It is important that we learn how to identify this invasive plant, monitor for its presence, and report infestations using tools such as EDDMapS.   

Yellow groove bamboo is native to China. It was first introduced into the United States in 1908 for horticultural uses. Yellow groove bamboo as well as other species of bamboo (Phyllostachys spp.) have also been introduced into North America for timber production. Although yellow groove bamboo is still legally sold in Indiana, it is regulated at the state and/or community level in several east coast states including Ohio and New York.

Yellow groove bamboo is a woody, perennial monocot in the Poacea (grass) family. The culm, or the stalk, is jointed and hollow. A key identification feature of this species is a yellow sulcus, or a groove, located on every other internode of the culm. The leaves are olive-green, lanceolate, pointed, hairy at the base, and can get up to seven inches long. Yellow groove bamboo is fast growing, and it can reach a height between twelve and eighteen feet. This species spreads rapidly via an underground rhizome system. Within riparian areas, rhizomes can be carried downstream and create new infestations. Also, yellow groove bamboo spreads most rapidly in moist soils.

To prevent infestations, do not plant yellow groove bamboo or other invasive bamboos. If yellow groove bamboo has been found, manually remove the plant ensuring proper disposal of the rhizomes. Chemical treatment using glyphosate can also be used. When chemically treating invasive species, always use pesticides wisely, and always read the entire pesticide label carefully. If a stream, pond, or other wetland area is observed, used chemicals that are approved for aquatic areas. Frequent monitoring is crucial when managing yellow groove bamboo. Ensure not treating giant cane (Arundinaria gigantea), a species of bamboo that is native to the United States.

Native alternatives that can grow in colonies and provide a natural privacy screen include:

Pawpaw

Sassafras

Staghorn Sumac

These may not fill in as quickly or as thick as bamboo, but they will do the job and the wildlife will thank you! For more ideas and to learn more about native landscaping, visit Landscaping with Native Plants — State of Indiana Cooperative Invasives Management (sicim.info).

If you find yellow groove bamboo outside of a landscape setting, please report it via EddMaps either through the app or their website: www.eddmaps.org/indiana. While this species has been found in landscaping throughout much of southern Indiana, right now it has only been reported escaping in Monroe and Tippecanoe County, so keep your eyes peeled for Yellow Archangel escaping into natural areas as you get outdoors this spring and do not forget to report it!

If you have been wanting to use EDDMaps but haven’t had the chance to learn, here’s a virtual event coming up to hone your skills:

• North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA): 2022 EDDMapS Summit, March 23rd

IMPORTANT: The pesticide label is the law! When using any chemical control, always read the entire pesticide label carefully, follow all mixing and application instructions and use all personal protective gear and clothing specified. Contact the Office of Indiana State Chemist (OISC) for additional pesticide use requirements, restrictions or recommendations.

CABI: Invasive Species Compendium: https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/42069

EDDMapS. Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System, Yellow Groove Bamboo: https://www.eddmaps.org/species/subject.cfm?sub=55473

Field Guide to Identification of Phyllostachys Invasive Running Bamboo Institute of Invasive Bamboo Research: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/329558826_Field_Guide_to_Identification_of_Phyllostachys_Invasive_Running_Bamboo_Institute_of_Invasive_Bamboo_Research

USDA NRCS Plant Guide, Giant Cane Arundinaria gigantea: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/nrcs144p2_002413.pdf

Invasive.org, Yellow Groove Bamboo: https://www.invasive.org/browse/subinfo.cfm?sub=55473  

 Invasive Plants in Pennsylvania, Golden, Yellow Groove & Giant Timber Bamboo: elibrary.dcnr.pa.gov/GetDocument?docId=3549860&DocName=Bamboo.pdf  

 Missouri Botanical Garden: Phyllostachys aureosulcata: www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=285361&isprofile=1&basic=yellow%20groove

New Invaders of the Northeast and Northcentral: https://bugwoodcloud.org/resource/pdf/FHTET-2017-04_New%20Invaders_NE.pdf

 Weed Risk Assessment for Phyllostachys aureosulcata McClure (Poaceae) – Yellow Groove Bamboo: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/plant_health/plant_pest_info/weeds/downloads/wra/Phyllostachys_aureosulcata_WRA.pdf

Photo credits:

Stalks and infestation of yellow groove bamboo in winter: Caryn Rickel, Institute of Invasive Bamboo Research, Bugwood.org

Yellow groove bamboo infestation (green): Paul Langlois, Live Botanical Collections, USDA APHIS PPQ, Bugwood.org

Distribution maps Courtesy of EDDMapS. 2021. Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System. The University of Georgia -Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health. Available online at https://www.eddmaps.org/species/subject.cfm?sub=55473

Pawpaw, Sassafras, and Sumac: John Hagstrom, The Morton Arboretum

SICIM Annual Partners Meeting

Join us for the next SICIM Annual Partners Meeting on March 17 at 9am (EST). This is a free and virtual event, and registration is required (see link below). Join us to hear about SICIM's accomplishments in 2021, updates on the Indiana Invasives Initiative, and to hear from two amazing speakers.

The theme for this year is "Bugs and Fungi: A New Invasive and Native Solution". We will have two speakers: Elizabeth Barnes, Purdue University, will discuss the spotted lanternfly, and Lauren Pile Knapp, US Forest Service, will discuss research on controlling invasive Tree of Heaven with a native fungus.

AGENDA

9:00     Welcome and SICIM 2021 Accomplishments & Awards - Will Drews

9:30     Business Meeting – Finance report, Nominations - Will Drews

9:45     III (Indiana Invasives Initiative) update – Dawn Slack

10:05   Break

10:10   Spotted Lanternfly: Indiana’s Newest Invasive Pest – Dr. Elizabeth Barnes, Purdue University, Department of Entomology

10:30   Controlling invasive Ailanthus trees With a Native Fungus – Dr. Lauren Pile Knapp, Northern Research Station, U.S. Forest Service

11:10   Wrap-Up and Adjourn - Stephanie Schuck, CISMA grant winners announced!

Indiana Invasive Species Awareness Week: Monkey Grass (Liriope spicata)

In honor of Indiana Invasive Species Awareness Week, we are highlighting some lesser known species that you need to be on the lookout for! These species have shown invasive tendencies but we don’t have a clear picture of their distribution in Indiana. If you see any of them growing in natural areas, be sure to report them in EDDMaps so that we can get a clearer understanding of their location and spread.

By: Dawn Slack

• Liriope spicata

• Common names: monkey grass / creeping liriope / lilyturf

• Native Range: China, Japan and Vietnam

• Rhizomatous grass-like herbaceous perennial (not a grass or lily)

• Family: Asparagus family

• Cultivars: Several and include Porcupine and Silver Dragon

The names associated with Liriope spicata (creeping lilyturf or monkey grass) conjure up imagines in my mind of tiny garden people working in and among the umbrella-like blades of grass; a microworld of bustling, almost secret, activity in a miniature forest that exists at ankle height. My vision was a little off because Liriope is old Greek and means mythical nymph and mother of Narcissus. Narcissus’ story is the very definition of a narcissist (one who is obsessed with themselves). Narcissus was a stunningly beautiful river nymph who died of starvation at the side of a river while he stared longingly at his own reflection. I feel like we just went full circle about life with this species and now I really want to avoid using it.

Liriope spicata (creeping lilyturf or monkey grass) is a grass-like perennial that forms clumps comprised of narrow, arching, dark-green leaves up to ¼ inch wide. This species can grow up to 15 inches tall and its flower, which may not exceed the leaves, is an erect spike that blooms in late summer and produces small pale lavender or white flowers. The fruits, purplish black berries, appear in fall. This species is typically evergreen in the south, but leaves turn brown in the winter in more northern areas. There are several variegated species of creeping lilyturf sold. The species is a common landscape species and is typically used as a ground cover or edging plant in rock gardens, woodland gardens, or in containers.

Creeping lilyturf is acaulescent (there is no true stem and for the most part the leaves arise from a central point next to the ground) and spreads aggressively by underground rhizomes. It forms dense mats and is on the state invasive species list in Tennessee and Georgia. Additionally, it is considered invasive in North Carolina, Florida, Mississippi, Alabama, and southern Illinois.  It has been observed spreading into natural areas in Indiana. Its dense mat forming habit can crowd out native species. As these aggressive non-native plants take over, our natural areas experience a decline of native plants; decreased populations or in some cases a loss of a native species. If we lose native plants, we also lose wildlife that rely on those native plants to complete their life cycles.  Think insect loss.

There are several Liriope species used in landscaping and creeping lilyturf is often confused with Liriope muscari (native range: China, Taiwan, and Japan) which is called big blue monkey grass, big blue liriope and big blue lilyturf. L. muscari grows to 18 inches tall and has leaves up to an inch wide.  L. muscari does spread as aggressively as L. spicata since it slowly expands by short stolons.  

We encourage you to try the following native alternatives that somewhat resemble these two Liriope species: Carex jamesii, C. laxiculmis, C. blanda, C. laxiflora, and C. grisea. In addition, small areas may be suitable for Sisyrinchium angustifolium or S. albidum, blue-eyed grass species. S. angustifolium is more common in the middle to southern part of Indiana, while S. albidum is more common in the northern part of the state.

Creeping lilyturf certainly adds structure and perhaps curbside appeal to formalized landscaping, but as with any invasive species it causes harm when it escapes (outcompetes native plants that are food or host plants for wildlife). We have an opportunity to make our gardens centers of life by choosing native plants or we can choose the opposite by using plants that are not part of our natural systems.  We have so much natural diversity in Indiana, so much to be proud of and enjoy and celebrate and so much to lose if we continue to use invasive plants in our landscapes. I hope you will join us, celebrate with us and help those you know do the same. Share the good news that comes with using natives in our landscape. We don’t want our insects, birds, salamanders and other wildlife to end up starving because we choose plants that even though beautiful are simply not part of our natural systems.

If you find monkey grass outside of a landscape setting, please report it via EddMaps either through the app or their website: www.eddmaps.org/indiana. The clusters of yellow flowers are hard to miss so be sure to keep an eye out in June and July! We need to have a better understanding of its invasive tendencies, so if you see it, report it!

If you have been wanting to use EDDMaps but haven’t had the chance to learn, here is a virtual event coming up to hone your skills:

• North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA): 2022 EDDMapS Summit, March 23rd

References and for more information on monkey grass:

https://www.invasiveplantatlas.org/subject.html?sub=11562

https://assessment.ifas.ufl.edu/assessments/liriope-spicata/

https://www.eddmaps.org/species/subject.cfm?sub=11562

http://bugwoodcloud.org/resource/pdf/FHTET-2017-05_New%20Invaders_SE.pdf

https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=LISP10

Photo credits:

"Lilyturf Liriope spicata Patch 3008px" Photo by and (c)2008 Derek Ramsey Licensed under GNU Free Documentation License 1.2 via Wikimedia Commons - http://commons.wikimedia.org

Liriope spicata in flower: “Liriope spicata 08 3287” by Bruce Kirchoff, Creative Commons attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) via Flickr.com

Foliage and individual plant: Forest and Kim Starr, Starr Environmental, Bugwood.org

Distribution map Courtesy of EDDMapS. 2021. Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System. The University of Georgia -Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health. Available online at https://www.eddmaps.org/species/subject.cfm?sub=11562

Indiana Invasive Species Awareness Week: Goldenrain tree (Koelreuteria paniculata)

In honor of Indiana Invasive Species Awareness Week, we are highlighting some lesser known species that you need to be on the lookout for! These species have shown invasive tendencies but we don’t have a clear picture of their distribution in Indiana. If you see any of them growing in natural areas, be sure to report them in EDDMaps so that we can get a clearer understanding of their location and spread.

Goldenrain tree (Koelreuteria paniculata) is a small to medium sized tree, growing 30 to 40 feet tall with a canopy of 30-40 feet wide. Native to China, Korea & Japan, it was introduced as a popular urban landscaping tree due to its ability to grow in a variety of climates and soil types, and tolerates air pollutants.

Goldenrain tree has alternate compound leaves, with each leaf made up of 7-17 leaflets that are irregularly lobed and deeply toothed. When the leaves first emerge, they are bronze to pinkish or purple in color  turning dull yellow in the fall. Young bark is light gray to brown and will become rigid and furrow with age.

Goldenrain tree produces showy, yellow star-shaped flowers in June and July. The flowers grow in stalked showy clusters, and form a golden mat below the tree, hence the name. Fruits are three parted papery capsules. 1 ¼ inch to 2 ½ inch long. The capsules start out green and turn to brown, persisting throughout the fall and winter.

Goldenrain tree reseeds itself readily and has been found to escape cultivation, with seeds having a very short germination time of only 6-8 days. It has only been reported sporadically throughout the United States including Indiana. It is currently listed by three states as invasive but is not listed federally.

If you find Goldenrain tree outside of a landscape setting, please report it via EddMaps either through the app or their website: www.eddmaps.org/indiana. The clusters of yellow flowers are hard to miss so be sure to keep an eye out in June and July! We need to have a better understanding of its invasive tendencies, so if you see it, report it!

If you have been wanting to use EDDMaps but haven’t had the chance to learn, here are a couple virtual events coming up to hone your skills:

• North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA): 2022 EDDMapS Summit, March 23rd

• National Invasive Species Awareness Week (NISAW) webinar: Let’s Use Eddmaps: Invasives Species Identification and Reporting Training, March 2nd

References and for more information on Goldenrain tree:

https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/golden-rain-tree

https://www.invasiveplantatlas.org/subject.html?sub=14083

https://www.invasive.org/browse/subinfo.cfm?sub=14083  

https://www.texasinvasives.org/plant_database/detail.php?symbol=KOPA

https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=KOPA

Photo credits:

Fall foliage: Dow Gardens, Bugwood.org

Dried-brown fruit capsules: Missouri Department of Conservation

Bark: J.S. Peterson, USDA Plant Database

Tree in flower: Flickr

Flower cluster: Flickr

Green to pink fruit capsules with flowers and leaves: Amber Slaughterbeck, SICIM

Distribution map Courtesy of EDDMapS. 2021. Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System. The University of Georgia -Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health. Available online at https://www.eddmaps.org/distribution/uscounty.cfm?sub=14083

Indiana Invasive Species Awareness Week: Siberian Squill (Scilla siberica)

In honor of Indiana Invasive Species Awareness Week, we are highlighting some lesser known species that you need to be on the lookout for! These species have shown invasive tendencies but we don’t have a clear picture of their distribution in Indiana. If you see any of them growing in natural areas, be sure to report them in EDDMaps so that we can get a clearer understanding of their location and spread.

Siberian squill (Scilla siberica or Othocallis siberica) was brought to North America as an ornamental spring bulb in the late 1700s. It is very hardy and cold tolerant, and its vibrant blue flowers are easy to spot in spring. This invasive spring ephemeral spreads readily into open natural areas forming a hazy blue carpet. As with lesser celandine, Siberian squill forms perennial bulbs that inhibit growth of native vegetation year-round long after its above ground growth goes dormant in late spring to early summer. It is found to escape into natural areas throughout the Northeast, Midwest, and Great Lakes Region of the United States and throughout Eastern Canada. Even though it is known to be invasive, Siberian squill is still available as a spring bulb in the nursery trade.

Siberian squill has upright grass-like leaves which emerge prior to flowering in early spring. One to three flowers are born on arching stalks that reach up to 8 inches tall. Each nodding blue flower is up to an inch-wide, bearing 6 blue tepals (3 petals and 3 sepals) each with a single distinct darker vein in the center. The fragrant blooms can withstand freezing temperatures and generally last for about 2 to 3 weeks. Some varieties have flower colors ranging from white to pink to violet. After flowering, it forms bumpy seed capsules that turn from green to brown upon maturity, splitting open to release dark reddish seeds.

 Siberian Squill is commonly planted in residential gardens and yards, from which it can easily spread into neighboring natural areas. It is very tolerant of late cold snaps and freezing temperatures and is avoided by native herbivores, giving it a competitive advantage to our native spring wildflowers. It favors disturbance, resprouting from bulblets broken off or left in the soil after digging. Once established, squill outcompetes native vegetation and is hard to remove. It prefers moist soil in part to full sun, including open woods or wooded edges, roadsides, gardens and grassy yards.

Siberian squill may be mistaken for our native wild hyacinth (Camassia scilloides) since both bloom around the same time, have 6 tepals, and can have purple to white flowers. To differentiate between the two, wild hyacinth can grow 12 inches or more in height, has floppy leaves, and a spike-like cluster of numerous flowers with several indistinct veins on each tepal (petal or sepal).

The first step in the management of Siberian squill is to stop planting this invasive bulb in landscapes and working to remove it from existing plantings. It is possible to dig out and destroy bulbs in smaller areas, though it's likely that bulblets will be left behind in the soil. Mow after bloom to remove seed heads and reduce spreading by seed. For larger areas, chemical control with systemic herbicide such as glyphosate may provide some degree of success, but will likely need more than one application. Be sure to time any chemical treatment for warmer sunny days in late winter to early spring. Due to its ephemeral growth period, the control window for Siberian squill is limited. Repeated control and monitoring will be necessary in spring each year for long term success.

IMPORTANT: The pesticide label is the law! When using any chemical control, always read the entire pesticide label carefully, follow all mixing and application instructions and use all personal protective gear and clothing specified. Contact the Office of Indiana State Chemist (OISC) for additional pesticide use requirements, restrictions or recommendations.

INDIANA NATIVE ALTERNATIVES: bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis), celandine poppy (Stylophorum diphyllum), dwarf crested iris (Iris cristata), sharp-lobed hepatica (Hepatica nobilis), Virginia bluebells (Mertensia virginica), tall bellflower (Campanula americana), wild columbine (Aquilegia canadensis), wild geranium (Geranium maculatum), wild ginger (Asarum canadense), wild hyacinth (Camassia scilloides), woodland phlox (Phlox divaricata)

If you find Siberian Squill outside of a landscape setting, please report it via EddMaps either through the app or their website: www.eddmaps.org/indiana. It is a spring ephemeral, so it will be emerging in very early spring, and tends to emerge about the same time as Bloodroot.

If you have been wanting to use EDDMaps but haven’t had the chance to learn, here are a couple virtual events coming up to hone your skills:

• North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA): 2022 EDDMapS Summit, March 23rd

• National Invasive Species Awareness Week (NISAW) webinar: Let’s Use Eddmaps: Invasives Species Identification and Reporting Training, March 2nd

References and for more information on Siberian Squill

https://extension.umn.edu/identify-invasive-species/squill

https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/flower/siberian-squill

http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/weeds/plants/sb_squill.htm

http://bonap.net/Napa/TaxonMaps/Genus/County/Othocallis

https://www.misin.msu.edu/facts/detail/print.php?id=269

Photo credits:

Flowers: Ansel Oommen, Bugwood.org

Squill crowding out bloodroot, flowers and leaves, and invading a bluff: Stephanie Schuck, SICIM

Siberian squill along a wooded pathway: Iowa State University, Extension and Outreach, Horticulture and Home Pest News, hortnews.extension.iastate.edu

Siberian squill invading open woodland understory. Photo by ©2010 Dan Ondler Minnesota Wildflowers, www.minnesotawildflowers.info

Distribution map Courtesy of EDDMapS. 2021. Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System. The University of Georgia -Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health. Available online at https://www.eddmaps.org/distribution/uscounty.cfm?sub=17359