With 1.2 million acres of public water, Florida has about 7,700 lakes and ponds and 1,400 rivers and streams. Although plants play an essential role in those natural areas and public waterbodies, a select few are considered invasive and their ability to take over areas can completely alter these unique landscapes forever. With its subtropical climate, miles of coastline, and thousands of travelers daily, Florida is uniquely prone to invasive plants.

There are about 1,400 non-native plants in Florida, and of those, 6% (79) are considered invasive. Invasive plants are species that are non-native, introduced intentionally or accidentally by humans, and cause environmental and/or economic damage.

The UF/IFAS Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants is dedicated to developing and disseminating strategies for addressing the impacts of invasive plants. Research shows that many invasive plants found in Florida will never be eradicated; they simply grow too fast. Instead, they become our responsibility to regularly manage for the sake of Florida’s precious natural resources.

This website serves as a resource for Florida residents, environmental educators, and others interested in learning more about aquatic and invasive plants.