Bush honeysuckle : invasive species

Abstract

"Reasons for Invasive Status: Bush Honeysuckle was introduced in the 1800s for ornamental purposes from Asia. Shade competition, when shrubs outcompete native plants by growing leaves sooner than native ones, yields negative consequence for slower growing plants because it blocks light and stunts native plant growth. Shade competition is the major reason Bush Honeysuckle suppress and damage thenative species that historically would have occurred in upland forests near the Missouri River. This makes Bush Honeysuckle one of the most aggressive invasive species encountered throughout the forests and woodlands in Missouri. While Bush Honeysuckle is a big issue in Missouri's upland forests, it is less common in the Missouri River floodplain because of the frequent flooding. Bush Honeysuckles also release what is called an allelopathic compound into the soil. This chemical impedes the growth of other species in the area to increase the Honeysuckle's chances of survival and reproduction."--Page 1-2.