Compared to its native counterpart, Invasive Phragmites can grow in dense stands with as many as 200 stems per square metre, and reach heights up to 15 feet. It's stems are tan/beige in colour with blue-green leaves and large, dense seedheads. Native Phragmites have reddish-brown stems, yellow-green leaves and smaller, sparser seedheads.
Invasive Phragmites
Invasive Phragmites (Phragmites australis) is an aggressive invasive plant hat spreads quickly and out-competes native species for water and nutrients. It is not clear how it was transported to North America from its native home in Eurasia.
It has been causing damage to Ontario's biodiversity for decades by releasing biochemicals from its roots into the soil to hinder the growth of surrounding plants.
- Crowds out native vegetation, resulting in decreased plant biodiversity
- Provides poor habitat and food supplies for wildlife, including several species at risk
- Grows very quickly, causing lower water levels as water is transpired faster than it would be with native vegetation
- Increases fire hazards as stands are composed of a high percentage of dead stalks
- Affects agriculture, cause road safety hazards
- Impacts recreational activities such as swimming, boating, and angling
Quinte Region Phragmites Management Area
Quinte Conservation is in the early stages of developing a Quinte Region Phragmites Management Area with potential partners, such as watershed municipalities, organizations and volunteer-based lake groups.
More information to come.
The QRPMA will support the prevention, control, and eradication efforts to mitigate the threats posed by Phragmites.
