Invasive Plants at Centennial Hall

Scientific name: Hedera helix

The English Ivy is located on the Northern side of Centennial Hall, covering a large amount of the area.

English Ivy is an invasive species to North America, as it thrives in the southeastern US climate and spreads very quickly. It can easily outcompete with native species, and can cover trees, thus limiting growth and weakening trees. 

Scientific Name: Galax urceolata

Unlike invasive English Ivy, Galax supports local ecosystems by providing habitat for native wildlife and thrives in shaded, moist environments without overwhelming other plants. Its attractive, leathery leaves and tolerance for acidic soils make it an excellent, ecologically responsible alternative to English Ivy.

Scientific name: Ilex cornuta

The Chinese Holly is located around the building, mainly near the entrance on the side of W lot.

Chinese holly is an invasive shrub in Georgia that spreads aggressively, outcompeting native plants and disrupting local ecosystems. Its dense growth and ability to thrive in various conditions make it difficult to control, often leading to monocultures that reduce biodiversity. Additionally, its robust root system makes removal challenging, requiring persistent management to prevent regrowth. 

Scientific Name: Ilex opaca

American holly is a native evergreen tree that thrives in Georgia’s climate, offering similar aesthetics to Chinese holly but with more ecological benefits. Its rounded, prickly leaves and bright red berries provide food and shelter for native wildlife, unlike the invasive Chinese holly, which can disrupt local ecosystems. Choosing American holly supports biodiversity while maintaining the ornamental appeal of holly shrubs. 

Scientific Name: Ligustrum japonicum

The Japanese privet is located next to the gate of the entrance of W lot, on the Courtland st side.

Japanese privet is an invasive shrub in Georgia that spreads aggressively, forming dense thickets that outcompete native plants. It thrives in various light and soil conditions, making it difficult to control, and its berries are widely dispersed by birds, further accelerating its spread. This invasion disrupts local ecosystems, reducing biodiversity and altering forest understories.

Scientific Name: Aronia melanocarpa

Black chokeberry is a native shrub that thrives in Georgia, offering ecological benefits as a replacement for invasive Japanese privet. Unlike privet, which forms dense thickets that outcompete native plants, chokeberry supports biodiversity by providing nectar for pollinators and berries for birds. Its adaptability to various soil conditions and striking seasonal foliage make it a sustainable and visually appealing choice for landscapes.

Scientific Name: Drytopteris erythrosora

The Autumn fern is located left of the entrance of the building at the corner of Courtland and Auburn.

Autumn fern is an invasive species in Georgia that spreads aggressively, displacing native ferns and altering forest understories. Its ability to thrive in various soil and light conditions allows it to outcompete local vegetation, reducing biodiversity. Managing its spread is crucial to preserving native plant communities and maintaining ecological balance. 

Scientific Name: Athyrium filix-femina

Lady fern is a native deciduous fern that thrives in Georgia’s moist, shaded environments, making it an excellent replacement for invasive autumn fern. Unlike autumn fern, which can spread aggressively and displace native species, lady fern supports local biodiversity while providing delicate, feathery foliage that enhances woodland landscapes. Its adaptability and graceful appearance make it a sustainable and ecologically responsible choice for gardens and restoration projects.

Scientific name: Euonymus alatus

The Burning bush is located next to the sidewalk on Auburn Ave, in front of the building. 

Burning bush is an invasive shrub in Georgia that spreads aggressively, forming dense thickets that outcompete native plants. Its bright red foliage and berries make it popular in landscaping, but birds disperse its seeds into natural areas, where it disrupts ecosystems. Managing its spread is crucial to preserving biodiversity and preventing further ecological imbalance.

Scientific Name: Rhus spp.

Sumac is a native shrub in Georgia that serves as an excellent replacement for invasive burning bush. Unlike burning bush, which spreads aggressively and disrupts ecosystems, sumac supports local wildlife by providing nectar for pollinators and berries for birds. Its vibrant red foliage in the fall offers similar aesthetic appeal while promoting biodiversity and ecological balance.