Virginia Mercury: State to allow invasives while educating about the value of native plants


Invasive plants have spread all over Virginia. Some groups say that needs to stop. is a reminder that natives are the best option. It’s not difficult to determine which natives to plant where thanks to several resources:

  • Virginia Native Plant Guides from the Virginia Native Plant Society: The guides are by region/county
  • Virginia Native Plant Finder by the Department of Conservation and Recreation: The database is searchable by light, area, height, and a number of other features
  • Native Plant Nurseries from the Virginia Native Plant Society: The list is searchable and the entire list may be downloaded in Excel or CSV file
  • Plant Virginia Natives: The content on this site is soup to nuts. The organization explains the basics and offers learning opps for those wanting to know more.
  • Virginia Invasive Plant Species List (PDF) by the Department of Conservation and Recreation: The list includes the scientuific and common names, invasiveness rank, and area where plants are found