56 Plants Added to “Prohibited List” in New York State

The New York State DEC has 56 total plants that are prohibited in New York State and there are laws that you should know when it comes to these plants.

There is a list that the New York State DEC has put out that include the plants that are regulated and prohibited.

Some of the prohibited New York State plants include:Yellow IrisCogon GrassAmur Cork TreeAmur HoneysuckleAutumn Olive Beach VitexBlack LocustBlack Swallow-wortBohemian Knotweed

In Western New York, one of the most well-known invasive species that people are worried about is the Giant Hogweed. If you see any Giant Hogweed, the New York State DEC asks that you contact them.

What happens if I touch Giant Hogweed?

If you ever come in contact with you, you are likely to get a severe ‘burn’. There is a sap from the Giant Hogweed that will get on your skin and when the sunlight and a little moisture combine on your skin it will be really, really irritated.

Giant hogweed is a Federally listed noxious weed and NYS law prohibits its possession with the intent to sell, import, purchase, transport, introduce or propagate. On average, a giant hogweed plant produces 20,000 seeds, with some plants producing up to 100,000 seeds. Most seeds fall within 10 feet of the parent plant, causing giant hogweed to grow in dense patches”, according to the New York State DEC.

You have likely seen the Giant Hogweed before. It can grow huge–up to 14 feet tall and the flowers that it produces is this wide, white flower.