What are invasive plants? | Virginia Invasive Plant List | What you can do

Virginia Invasive Plants Early Detection Species

Early detection species are not yet widely established in Virginia but are known to be highly invasive in habitats similar to those found here. The nine species currently identified as early detection species were assessed using the DCR Invasive Species Assessment Protocol.

The primary management goal for early detection species is eradication. Preventing the establishment of early detection species will save valuable natural resources and avoid economic losses.

A species will continue to be listed as "early detection" until it is shown to be permanently established and beyond the scope of a feasible eradication program. Further, if a species is successfully eradicated, it will likely remain on the early detection list to encourage ongoing vigilance. Examples of the latter scenario include beach vitex (Vitex rotundifolia) and giant salvinia (Salvinia molesta).

Below is a current range map of Virginia's early detection plant species. Zoom in or out to change the map view. Click a pin to see the species identified at a given location along with its description and photo. If you find one of these species in Virginia, map and report it. Fact sheets on each early detection species are coming soon.

Learn more about distribution of plant species in Virginia with the Digital Atlas of the Virginia Flora.