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Flower of bigleaf myrtle (Vinca major)
Photo: J.J. Harrison |
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 Plan Before You Plant:
Native Alternatives to Invasive Species
Myrtle
Many invasive species that are still sold in nurseries and used by landscapers have native lookalikes. These alternatives grow similarly but stay contained - habi
tat remains
intact and the
plants play host to
a wealth of pollinators.
This month, our featured invasive ornamental is myrtle, also known as common periwinkle (Vinca minor). It grows rapidly, creating dense thickets along the forest floor. Because it is more shade tolerant than other species, native tree seedlings and wildflowers that would otherwise have less competition are now displaced.
Once established, myrtle can be very difficult to manage due to extensive rhizomes that form a complex system in the soil.
Next time you are looking for ground covers look for bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) or Canada anemone (Anemone canadensis). Native to our region, these low-growing alternatives play host to a variety of insects and will add variety to your garden landscape.
For more native plants, please
visit our website
.
*Plan Before you Plant brochures are available from ISN
*Myrtle is still allowed for sale and use by Go Beyond Beauty participants. However, ISN still encourages the use of native alternatives.
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| Photo: Grand Traverse Conservation District |
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Bearberry
(Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)
Photo: Tim Waters
Technically a low-growing shrub, bearberry thrives in dry, sandy soil - you will often find it growing naturally on Michigan's dunes. Requiring full sun and acidic soil, avoid planting this in clay. One perk? It is deer resistant. |
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Canada Anemone
(Anemone canadensis)
Photo: John Beetham
Unlike bearberry, Canade anemone likes damp areas. It will provide a solid ground cover via wide-reaching rhizomes. White flowers bloom in late spring and early summer which will attract an array of pollinators.
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