Invasive Species

Often referred to as "alien" or "non-native", invasive plant is the name for a species that has become a weed and spreads aggressively, displacing native plants.

• Spurge Daphne and Tree Lupine [PDF - 297 KB]
• Garlic Mustard [PDF - 152 KB]
• Milk Thistle [PDF - 167 KB]
• Giant Hogweed *

* NOTE:  Giant Hogweed is an invasive perennial plant that contains a chemical that can cause severe burns to skin or eyes. Fortunately, there have been no sightings of Giant Hogweed on public land in recent years in Victoria. Parks staff monitor public land for Giant Hogweed and will respond to inquiries from private landowners should they think they have this plant on their property.

Cow Parsnip, which can be found along Dallas Road, looks like Giant Hogweed but only has a very small amount of the same chemical that causes Giant Hogweed burns. Cow Parsnip is an important plan for insects and birds, which is why it remains on public land. However, those with sensitive skin should avoid contact with this plant.

The fact sheet above explains how to identify Giant Hogweed, what to do if you come in contact with it, and how to carefully remove it. Giant Hogweed should not be composted as parts or seeds can produce new plants.

Disposal - The public can bag and seal invasive plants and pay for extra garbage tickets to have them picked up on their waste collection day or take them to the Hartland landfill.

Capital Region Invasive Species Partnership (CRISP)

The Capital Region Invasive Species Partnership (CRISP) provides efficient and effective invasive species management in the Capital Region by increasing regional collaboration, information sharing, planning and programs. The City of Victoria is a member of this partnership.

Knotweed
CRISP is asking for the public's assistance in reporting occurrences of the invasive plant Knotweed. It's considered to be one of the world's worst invasive species and one of the top ten invasive species in British Columbia.

Sometimes called ornamental bamboo, its dense stands eliminate all other vegetation and are extremely difficult to eradicate. Knotweed is a threat to fish and wildlife habits, biodiversity and can cause bank erosion and clogged waterways. It's strong enough to penetrate pavement.

Do NOT dig or compost any portion of the plant, as fragments can re-grow. Cutting, mowing, and pulling stimulate shoot grown and may cause roots to spread, resulting in new infestations up to 20 metres away. There is a special treatment program for this species offered in the Capital Region.

Learn more [PDF - 835 KB] on how to identify this invasive plant.  

Report Knotweed and Other Invasive Species

Other Invasives 
To report other invasive species in the Capital Region, contact Provincial-Report-a-Weed at: www.reportaweedbc.ca