These Common Plants Are Illegal in Massachusetts

Reeds, trees, bushes, flowers. We've all seen them — whether walking in the woods, working in our gardens, kayaking on the river, or even just by the side of the road.

But did you know that some of our most common plants are actually incredibly successful invasive species?

Massachusetts keeps a long list of plants that are illegal to grow, sell, or propagate (spread) in the state — and some, like the burning bush, are garden favorites from years gone by, so beware!

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In fact, the state has added three new species to the 145-plus list of prohibited plants just in the past few months, with a plan for nurseries to phase out sales by 2025.

And the plants on this list certainly don't need your help to grow — they're so widespread, most of us will easily recognize them, and they're actually kicking out our native flora.

So as the weather warms up and we get back outside, watch out: you may want to pick that pretty plant, but spreading its seeds or cuttings is another story.

Here are some of the most recognizable plants in Massachusetts that shouldn't be here.