A Natural Areas Inventory of the - Kansas Natural Heritage Inventory ...

Dipsacus laciniatus (Dipsacaceae; cut-leaf teasel)
Native to Europe, cut-leaf teasel was probably introduced to North America in the 1700s for use
in the textile industry. A biennial or monocarpic perennial, its rapid expansion was probably
aided by construction of the interstate highway system and its use in flower arrangements,
especially around gravestones in cemeteries. A single plant can produce 2,000 seeds. Seeds
typically do not disperse far but may be water borne over a greater distance. It is an aggressive
species that can degrade prairies and savannas if allowed to establish. It is found in open habitats
under a wide range of moisture conditions. Mowing is ineffective as is prescribed burning alone.
Foliar herbicide spot treatment with a backpack sprayer may be the most cost effective method
for high-quality sites that are not yet heavily infested.
Cut-leaf teasel is not thought to be a major threat to native biodiversity at FLMR at this time.
This species is generally associated with disturbed habitats (roadsides, abandoned fields,
construction areas), and does not do well in shaded environments. It also can appear during the
early years of prairie restorations, but in successful restorations will generally not persist as a
problem species. Extreme care must be exercised in controlling this species where it occurs
within or near native communities so as not to damage non-target species.
Elaeagnus umbellata (Elaeagnaceae; autumn-olive)
Native to Japan, China, and Korea, autumn-olive was introduced to the United States in 1830. It
is a medium to large shrub that can reach a height of 6 m. It has been planted widely for wildlife
habitat, erosion control and reclamation. Seed dispersal is by falling fruit, birds, and small
mammals. Once established, autumn-olive can be difficult to control. It is often found in
disturbed areas, roadsides, pastures, open woodlands and forest edges. A combination of
mechanical and chemical treatments may be effective. Cutting without herbicide treatment and
burning are not effective.
Autumn-olive is not currently a problem at FLMR (but see general considerations for exotic trees
and shrubs).
Euonymus alata (Celastraceae; winged burningbush)
Native to northeastern Asia to central China, winged burningbush was introduced about 1860 as
an ornamental shrub. It is a deciduous shrub that can grow to 6 m. The foliage turns bright red
in the fall. Stems have two to four prominent corky wings. Commonly used for landscaping, its
seeds are readily dispersed by birds. In natural areas it shades out native herbs and competes
with native shrubs. It is found in a variety of areas but prefers well-drained soils and does poorly
on waterlogged soils. It does well in full sun or full shade but shows stress in soils subject to
drought. Woodlands where birds nest near ornamental plantings may become infested. Control
can be difficult once winged burningbush becomes established because of seed dispersal by
birds. The best control is to abstain from using it as an ornamental.
Winged burningbush at FLMR is found primarily found along stream courses in upland forest
communities. The species is not currently a problem at FLMR (but see general considerations
for exotic trees and shrubs).
NATURAL AREAS INVENTORY OF FT. LEAVENWORTH II 192