Invasive non-natives: Black Mustard and Wild Radish
You may recognize these plants, but did you know they are invasive?
Just in time for the “stay at home order” the South Bay saw its annual wildflower bloom. The late showers in March and April seemed to bolster the showing which presented as brilliant yellows, some purples, and a splash of other colors.
It’s hard not to be dazzled, but much of the foliage responsible for the yellow display comes from black mustard, a non-native to California, and extremely invasive. Not only does it crowd out natives, but it releases a chemical that prevents other plants from germination.
Fast-growing, and quick to dry out in the summer months, Black Mustard and other non-native grasses can provide fuel for wildfires. Unlike native plants that are by design, often fire-resistant.
As the mustard bloomed around town and on the hill, SBPC board members were planting natives and weeding the invasive wild radish at Wilderness Park. It develops white and purple flowers and a large root which, as you would expect looks like a radish and, is edible. If left to grow undisturbed, it would also choke out the newly planted natives by monopolizing water, nutrients, and sunlight.
The establishment and spread of invasive species can degrade wildlife habitat but, there is hope. By re-establishing indigenous flora and fauna, invasive will be pushed back however, never fully eradicated. Planting California natives can help save water, reduce maintenance and pesticide use, and invite beneficial pollinators.
Black Mustard, or Brassica nigra.
Wild radish, or Raphanus sativus. When pulled up the root looks much like a Daikon radish.
Natives vs Invasives - The Basics
1. Why should we plant Native Plants?
Planting California natives can help save water, reduce maintenance and pesticide use, and invite beneficial pollinators.
2. What are Invasive Plants?
An "invasive species" is defined as a species that is
Non-native (or alien) to the ecosystem under consideration; and,
Whose introduction causes or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health.
3. What are a few, well-known, invasive plants:
Highway Ice Plant
Spotted Knapweed
Thistle
The Southern California Invasive Plant Inventory, provides a comprehensive guide that includes scientific as well as common names of invasives as well as corresponding photos.
4. What are the impacts of invasive plant species?
Invasive species compete directly with native species for moisture, sunlight, nutrients, and space.
Overall plant diversity can be decreased
Establishment and spread of invasive species can degrade wildlife habitat
Results in poor quality agriculture lands
Degraded water quality
Increased soil erosion
Decreased recreation opportunities
These impacts change nature's balance on which all species depend.
5. Five tips on combating invasive plants
Learn to identify local invasive plants (and animals).
Know what plants are growing on your property or on community lands so that plans can be made to remove invasive species as soon as possible.
Eliminate invasive plants from your landscape. We recommend consulting with a local invasive plant council or natural resources department to get specific guidance.
Participate in workdays to help remove invasive plants from parks and other public wildlands. Volunteer to make a real difference in the local ecosystem while learning about the local flora and fauna.
When you see invasive plants for sale, say something
Sources and additional information: