Invasive Plant Removal

Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius), also known as the Florida holly, was introduced to Florida in 1898 from its native habitat in Brazil. Since its introduction a little over a century ago, the Brazilian pepper tree has taken over more than 700,000 acres of land in Florida. A direct negative impact from this exotic, invasive plant on the Florida ecosystem is the displacement of native plant species. The Brazilian pepper tree is able to out-compete native plants due to its fast growth rate and allelopathic (toxic or inhibitory activity) effects. Brazilian peppers in the Tampa Bay area are displacing native mangrove forests at an alarming rate. This, in turn, is reducing vital coastal habitat for native wildlife.

The removal of Brazilian pepper trees and other invasive species from our coastal communities is an important project to curb its effects on the environment. Successful removal of Brazilian peppers requires specialized equipment, training of professional staff and volunteers, application of toxic herbicides, and networking with agencies and local governments, all of which may not be available to well-intentioned community members.

Several programs exist, sponsored by Tampa Bay Watch, City of Tampa, and the Mayor's Beautification Program focuson the removal of Exotic Plants in public areas (local and state parks, neighborhood associations, and regional shoreline causeways.

Invasive, non-native plants are a problem for park and environmental land managers, farmers, ranchers and homeowners. Millions of dollars are spent each year battling pest plants that threaten our native, natural plant communities.

A non-native invasive is a plant from somewhere other than Florida that spreads aggressively into natural areas. All non-native plants are not invasive. They become invasive when they outgrow and replace native plants in natural plant communities.