Why This Gorgeous Plant is Secretly a Big Problem For Maine’s Ecosystem

Spring is here in Maine and one of the best parts about this season are taking in Maine's wildflowers and plants.

Maine is lush with colorful wild beauty and we all take advantage of stopping to smell the roses when the time finally comes.  

So at first glance there is one plant that looks gorgeous and harmless, but it's not. 

That tall, feminine shape with soft purple tones popping up in a field or your backyard sure looks lovely at first glance

Read More: Here Are the Best Flowers to Plant Right Now in Maine 

Which plant am I referring to? The Purple Loosestrife. 

She's pretty but watch out because this is Maine’s prettiest plant-based villain! 

Apparently, this villain plant has been crashing out nature party since 1902. The plant was first spotted in Skowhegan, according to Maine.gov.

Unfortunately, it’s been thriving ever since, even though so many have tried to complete it’s extinction.  

Spoiler alert: the beetles are trying their best, but the purple loosestrife isn’t going anywhere soon.  

Read More: Most Unwanted Plant in Maine is Probably Growing on Your Property

What does this plant do for our eco system? 

According to NH.gov, this plant literally does nothing good for Maine’s nature, like nothing. It doesn’t give food, shelter or a nesting ground for any critters.

It just takes up space and aggressively pushes out native specials like a super rude house guest.  

Let’s get down to business.

Here’s why this plant needs to go, according to Invasive Species Maine: 

• Pushes out native plants 
• Conquers wetlands and ruins the habitats for other animals 
• Lowers biodiversity, which is bad for the environment 
• Stops and clogs the water flow in ditches and canals 
• Each plant makes millions of seeds, so it spreads fast 
• It might be toxic to cats 

It isn’t toxic enough to create any serious harm to humans, but don’t eat it. If you see one in your back yard, yank it, fast!  

The State of Maine encourages residents to remove them before they get out of control and take over your whole entire backyard life.

Even the big guys at the state level are like “if you see it, YANK IT."