Kudzu

Famous for its invasiveness, kudzu can damage native ecosystems as it outcompetes local vegetation and harms the environment. Tammy Sons, founder and CEO at TN Nursery, suggests Creeping Jenny as a safe alternative to kudzu. "This plant features a ground-cover growth and is not nearly as aggressive," she says. "It's not invasive, and will add beauty without overwhelming any surrounding plants."

Bamboo

Another invasive species that spreads aggressively is bamboo. "They often overtake nearby plants and crack sidewalks or foundations," says Chris Turner, owner and landscape designer at Elevate by Design. "Managing its growth requires constant maintenance, and it can become a huge headache."

Japanese Spirea

Japanese spirea can very quickly naturalize an area and crowd out native plants, says Nicole Dillon, a micro-flower farmer and owner at Breemar Flower Farm. "It creeps into meadows and open forest areas, and the seeds dropped from spirea can persist in the soil for several years, making control difficult," she says. "If you like the pink umbels of spirea, consider Joe Pye weed instead. It's native, and comes in many different heights to fit pretty much any garden space."

Purple Loosestrife

If your garden has more of a wetland look, Sons warns against purple loosestrife as an addition. Aquatic ecosystems are in danger of overcrowding with this plant around, and any plants that grow food or provide shelter for wildlife will be wiped out.

Chinese Wisteria

While Chinese wisteria is beautiful and aromatic when in bloom, it has a habit of climbing trees. "Unfortunately, it will eventually choke the trees and kill them," says Dillon. "Plant American wisteria, Coral honeysuckle, or Carolina jessamine instead."

Privet

Privet is almost indestructible, according to Dillon, and forms dense thickets, making it impossible for native plants to grow alongside it. "The leaves also contain compounds that our native insects aren’t adapted to eat," she says. "If you’re looking to screen an area, consider native viburnums, elderberry, or native holly."