INVEST
PLANT
SOFTWOODS
HARDWOODS
CALCULATORS
RESOURCES
PROGRAMS
Norway maple (Acer platanoides)
Quick ID: milky sap in leaf stalks; dense shade; prolific seedlings in understory.
Learn more: NYIS profile
Softwoods
Learn More
Identify • Report • Control
This page is a New York State companion to our national guide: Invasive Tree Species (Weed Trees). Use it to confirm what’s considered invasive in New York State, 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
Fast paths to confirm ID, check maps, and report sightings — statewide and by region.
Invasive Tree Species (Weed Trees) — definitions, red flags, and prevention.
Search NYIS for identification cues, impacts, and look‑alikes.
View maps and report an invasive (community scientists welcome).
Find your PRISM for local guidance, trainings, and priority lists.
Part 575 overview — what’s prohibited/regulated and why handling matters.
Tip: before you remove a tree, confirm ID. Some invasive trees closely resemble natives. If you’re unsure, photograph leaves, bark, buds/fruit, and the whole tree — then cross-check a NYIS profile.
New York’s invasive status can vary by program and region, but these trees are widely tracked across the state. Use the links to confirm details for your county and habitat.
Quick ID: milky sap in leaf stalks; dense shade; prolific seedlings in understory.
Learn more: NYIS profile
Quick ID: large compound leaves; foul odor when crushed; aggressive root suckers.
Learn more: NYIS ranking form
Quick ID: very large fuzzy leaves; showy purple flowers; colonizes disturbed soils and edges.
Learn more: NYIS ranking form
Quick ID: glossy oval leaves; heavy spring bloom; thorny wild-type seedlings spread by birds.
Learn more: NYIS ranking form
Quick ID: variable leaf shapes; abundant berries eaten by birds; spreads into edges and openings.
Learn more: LH PRISM profile
Quick ID: silvery leaves; fragrant flowers; thorny branches; bird‑dispersed fruit.
Learn more: NYSDOT overview
Photo checklist: leaves (top + underside), bark, buds/twigs, fruit/seed pods, and a full-tree photo. Those five angles usually make ID decisive.
The best reports include clear photos and a precise location. The best control plans include follow-up.
Leaves, bark, flowers/fruit, full canopy. Note habitat and whether seedlings are present.
Use trusted profiles: NYIS plant profiles.
See if it’s established in your area using NY iMapInvasives.
Submit sighting info through local programs or map/reporting tools (include photos + location).
Match treatment to the species and site. Avoid spreading seeds or fragments during removal.
Re-check for resprouts and seedlings. Most invasive trees require multiple visits.
High-risk sites: riparian areas, disturbed lots, road edges, and post-fire landscapes. If the tree is near water or within sensitive habitat, coordinate before you act.
Most invasive tree control fails for one reason: the tree comes back. Plan control around preventing resprouting and new seedlings.
Many invasives resprout aggressively when cut. A one-time cut can create a thicket.
Seeds and fragments spread. Bag seed heads, avoid hauling loose material, and follow local rules.
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.
Start with photos and a trusted profile. In New York State, NYIS plant profiles and regional mapping tools are a strong first pass.
No. Many non-natives are not invasive. “Invasive” means it spreads and causes harm (or is likely to) in natural areas.
Not always, but many invasive trees resprout after cutting. The safest, most effective approach depends on the species and site. Follow label directions and local guidance.
Copyright © All rights reserved Tree Plantation