Is wisteria invasive in New York?
Answer
As of January 2022, none of the three species of wisteria found in our area, Wisteria sinensis (Chinese wisteria), Wisteria floribunda (Japanese wisteria) or the Southeastern US native Wisteria frutescens, are regulated, invasive species in the State of New York. The two non-native species are, however, considered Tier 4 (widespread) invasives by the Lower Hudson Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management, which means that they are aggressive and widely established in natural areas.
The ecological threat of the woody vines formed by Wisteria sinensis and Wisteria floribunda are described in these links from the National Park Service. Wisteria frutescens is less aggressive.
Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information Service
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