Red twig dogwood has showy leaves in the fall and red branches for winter interest. Submitted Photo
Invasive species, such as burning bush (Euonymus alatus), can disrupt Pennsylvania’s delicate ecosystems, threatening native plants and the wildlife that depends on them.
Originally from East Asia, the burning bush was introduced to North America in the 1860s and became very popular in residential landscapes, loved for its striking fall color.
Although gardeners can usually limit its root spread in residential backyards, its rapid spread into forests through seed dispersal has led to its classification as an invasive species in more than 20 states. Now, burning bush has been added to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s list of Class B noxious weeds, which means that burning bush cannot be planted or propagated in the Commonwealth.
Fortunately, we have beautiful native alternatives suited to our soils and climate, benefit our wildlife, and help combat the spread of invasive species like burning bush. Here are a few to consider in your landscape.
Delicate, white chokeberry flowers produce edible sharp-tasting fruit. Submitted Photo
Red chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia) is a native shrub that thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. Growing 6 to 10 feet tall and wide, it produces clusters of white flowers in spring, followed by red berries that attract birds. Its brilliant red fall foliage adds striking color to the landscape, making it a standout feature in any garden.
Possumhaw viburnum (Viburnum nudum) is another excellent native shrub, doing well in full sun to part shade and moist, well-drained soil. Growing 6 to 12 feet tall and wide, it produces white flowers in spring, followed by clusters of edible red berries. Its glossy green leaves turn red in the fall, providing additional seasonal interest and making it a beautiful addition to any landscape.
Virginia sweetspire (Itea virginica) also thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. This shrub grows 3 to 6 feet tall and wide, boasting fragrant white flowers in late spring and stunning red to orange foliage in the fall. It also attracts pollinators like bees, adding to its ecological value.
Red twig or red-osier dogwood (Cornus sericea) is a native shrub that thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. Growing 5 to 9 feet tall and wide, it produces clusters of white flowers in spring, followed by white berries that attract birds. Its main ornamental feature is its bright red stems in the winter, which provide striking color against the snow and make red-osier dogwood a four-season show.
Spicebush (Lindera benzoin) is an attractive native that prefers part shade to full shade and moist, well-drained soil. This shrub reaches 6 to 12 feet tall and wide, featuring aromatic leaves and yellow flowers in early spring. It is a host plant for the spicebush swallowtail butterfly (Papilio troilus), contributing to local biodiversity.
Although not native to Pennsylvania, fothergilla or witch alder (Fothergilla spp.) is a beautiful option that thrives in full sun to part shade and moist, acidic soil. Native to the southeastern United States and growing 2 to 6 feet tall and wide, it produces honey scented, white, bottlebrush-like flowers in spring. Its fall foliage is vibrant in shades of orange, red and burgundy, providing a stunning display throughout the season.
Choosing these native alternatives adds beauty to your landscape, supports local biodiversity, and reduces the spread of invasive species. As gardeners, you have the power to make a positive impact on the environment. Responsible gardening practice contributes to the preservation of Pennsylvania’s natural beauty.
Penn State Extension has additional information on identifying and controlling burning bush at extension.psu.edu/burning-bush and suggested native shrub replacements for invasive shrubs and trees at extension.psu.edu/programs/master-gardener/counties/york/native- plants/fact-sheets/native-replacements-for-invasive-plants.
If you have questions about invasive species and native shrubs, call the Penn State Extension Master Gardeners of Butler County at their Garden Hotline at 724-287-4761, ext. 7, or email the Master Gardeners at butlermg@psu.edu.
Danielle Fannin is a Penn State Extension Master Gardener of Butler County.
