What counts as an invasive tree species in Florida?

Invasive trees are non-native trees that spread aggressively and cause ecological, economic, or safety impacts. In Florida, state lists and assessments help identify which non-native trees are actively damaging natural areas and which are considered high-risk or prohibited.

Where can I verify whether a tree is considered invasive in Florida?

Start with Florida-focused inventories and plant profiles (such as FISC), then cross-check distribution in mapping tools and local extension or land management guidance.

Should I remove an invasive tree myself?

Small seedlings may be manageable, but many invasive trees resprout aggressively when cut. For larger trees, consult local guidance and consider a professional—especially near structures, waterways, or utility lines.

How do I report an invasive tree sighting in Florida?

Use regional reporting and mapping tools when available and include photos plus a precise location. You can also contact local invasive species programs, land managers, or extension offices.

What is the biggest mistake when controlling invasive trees?

Removing the top growth without stopping resprouting or seed spread. Successful control usually combines correct timing, follow-up monitoring, and safe disposal to prevent re-establishment.

Florida Invasive Trees: Identification, Reporting & Control Resources

Identify • Report • Control

Invasive Trees in Florida: Local Resources Linked to the Weed Trees Hub

This page is a Florida companion to our national guide: Invasive Tree Species (Weed Trees). Use it to confirm what’s considered invasive in Florida, verify identification, and find the most useful mapping and reporting tools.

Fast path: get photos → confirm ID → check inventories/maps → report → choose control + follow-up. The goal is to prevent spread (seeds and vegetative fragments) and avoid “cut-and-sprout” failures.

Jump to: quick links • common invasive trees • verify & report • control playbook • FAQs

Florida Quick Links (Start Here)

Fast paths to “Is this invasive here?” and “What should I do next?”

National hub

Invasive Tree Species (Weed Trees) — definitions, red flags, and prevention.

Florida Invasive Species Council

FISC invasive plant list (includes watch list downloads).

FWC Invasive Plant Alerts

State pages for high-impact species: Weed Alerts.

UF/IFAS Plant Directory

Species profiles + UF/IFAS assessment notes (search by botanical name): Plant Directory.

Local control guidance

Extension and EDIS publications often include control timing + methods: UF/IFAS EDIS.

Field rule

Don’t “cut-and-walk.” Many Florida invasives resprout. Plan for follow-up monitoring.

Florida reality: invasive trees thrive in disturbed edges, canal banks, hammocks, flatwoods, mangrove transitions, and post-storm openings. Early detection beats expensive removal.

Coasts • Wetlands • Hammocks • Canal Banks

Florida “Rapid-ID” approach

Use the 6 examples below as a quick visual shortlist. Confirm with UF/IFAS or FWC pages, then decide whether to report, remove, or manage. If you’re near water, in protected habitat, or dealing with a large tree, coordinate with local guidance before you act.

Florida invasive trees in wetlands and coastal habitats

6 High-Priority Invasive Trees to Know in Florida

Florida lists vary by region and habitat, but these species show up repeatedly in state alerts, assessments, and invasive plant lists. Use them as a starting point — then verify for your county and site conditions.

Invasive tree	Quick ID cue	Why it’s a problem	Learn more
Brazilian peppertree Schinus terebinthifolia	Glossy leaflets; red/pink berries; forms dense thickets.	Widespread invader that displaces natives and dominates edges and natural areas.	FWC overview • UF/IFAS control
Melaleuca / paperbark Melaleuca quinquenervia	Spongy “paper” bark; white bottlebrush flowers; prolific seed.	Transforms wetlands and displaces native vegetation in wetland and upland environments.	FWC overview • UF profile
Australian pine Casuarina equisetifolia	Needle-like branchlets; “cone” fruits; heavy litter under canopy.	Invades beaches and coastal habitats, shades out natives, and can increase storm hazard risks.	FWC overview • UF/IFAS guide
Carrotwood Cupaniopsis anacardioides	Shiny leaflets; orange/yellow fruit capsules; birds spread seed widely.	Invades hammocks, pinelands, dunes, and swamps; alters understory habitat.	UF/IFAS EDIS • UF profile
Chinese tallow Triadica sebifera	Heart-shaped leaves; brilliant fall color; waxy white seeds.	Spreads by birds and water; invades wetlands and forests and can change habitat conditions.	UF/IFAS guide • USDA overview
Mimosa / silk tree Albizia julibrissin	Feathery leaves; pink “puff” flowers; long seed pods.	Escapes landscapes and invades disturbed and riparian habitats, forming dense patches.	UF/IFAS guide • FLIP profile

If you want a longer Florida list (with region notes and native alternatives), start with the FISC list and cross-check species in the UF/IFAS Plant Directory.

Verify & Report: A Simple Florida Workflow

The best reports include clear photos and a precise location. The best control plans include follow-up.

1) Photograph

Leaves, bark, flowers/fruit, and the full canopy. Note habitat (beach dune, canal bank, hammock, flatwoods, wetland edge).

2) Confirm ID

Use UF/IFAS profiles and assessments: Plant Directory.

3) Check status

Cross-check with the FISC list and local program guidance.

4) Report if needed

Use state and local tools (or your land manager). Start with FWC Weed Alerts.

5) Choose control

Match treatment to the species and site. Avoid spreading seed/fruit and vegetative fragments.

6) Follow up

Re-check for resprouts and seedlings (especially after storms, mowing, or soil disturbance).

High-risk sites: beaches/dunes, mangrove transitions, canal banks, freshwater wetlands, and disturbed edges around development. Near water? Coordinate before removal.

Control Playbook: What Usually Works (and What Usually Fails)

Most invasive tree control fails for one reason: the tree comes back. Plan control around preventing resprouting and new seedlings.

Don’t “cut and walk away”

Many invasives resprout aggressively when cut. A one-time cut can create a thicket.

Dispose carefully

Seeds and fragments spread. Bag seed heads, avoid hauling loose material, and follow local rules.

Time it

Some treatments work best when the plant is moving resources to roots. Follow species guidance.

Want a national overview of invasive “weed trees” and prevention strategy? Go back to: Invasive Tree Species.

Florida Invasive Trees FAQs

What counts as an invasive tree in Florida?

Invasive trees are non-native species that spread aggressively and cause ecological or economic harm. In Florida, lists and assessments (like FISC and UF/IFAS resources) help flag high-impact species and watch-list species.

Where can I verify whether a tree is invasive in my area?

Start with UF/IFAS plant profiles and the Florida Invasive Species Council list, then check local extension or land manager guidance. If you’re unsure, report with photos and ask for confirmation before removing or transporting plant material.

Should I cut an invasive tree down immediately?

Small seedlings can often be removed promptly, but many invasive trees resprout after cutting. For medium-to-large trees, use species-specific guidance and plan follow-up monitoring.

What’s the biggest control mistake in Florida?

Cut-and-walk. In warm climates, resprouting can be aggressive — and storms can spread seed/fruit. Successful control usually means correct timing, careful disposal, and at least one follow-up visit.

Florida Invasive Trees

Softwoods

Hardwoods

Calculators

Resources

Programs