Dense, leafy green trees fill the background behind a grassy park lawn.

Plant Profile: Common Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica)

October 2, 2026 Plant ProfileTallgrassWeeds

If you were to ask an ecologist to name the most problematic invasive species in our woodlands, they very well might mention buckthorn first. There are a variety of traits that this species has that helps it outcompete and displace…

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A dense field of tall, feathery grasses with green foliage and trees in the background, under a clear blue sky. A house is partially visible in the upper right corner.

Plant Profile: Common Reed (Phragmites australis)

September 1, 2026 Plant ProfileTallgrassWeeds

When you come across a wall of the invasive common reed (Phragmites australis) you can’t help but marvel at how tall and dense the monocultures of this grass can get. This aggressive invader can now be found in wetlands and…

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Reed Canary Grass Stand

Plant Profile: Reed Canary Grass (Phalaris arundinacea)

April 1, 2025 Plant ProfileTallgrassWeeds

Few invasive species cause more havoc in our wetlands than reed canary grass, or RCG for short. Nearly ubiquitous, this seemingly unremarkable grass has been taking over our streams, marshes, and meadows for decades, leaving little room for other plant…

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2nd year garlic mustard bolted with white flowers.

Plant Profile: Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata)

May 17, 2023 Plant ProfileTallgrassWeeds

If you ever volunteered at your local forest preserve, you may find yourself in the woods pulling garlic mustard. Some organizations across the country even hold competitions to see who can pull the most. But what is it about garlic…

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