Invasive plants (sometimes also called noxious weeds) are non-native plants that have been introduced to British Columbia and lack environmental pressures (such as insect predators and plant pathogens) that help keep them in check. Invasive plants and animals are the second greatest threat to global biodiversity, after habitat destruction.
Invasive plants out-compete native vegetation and spread quickly if left untreated. They destroy food sources and take over important habitats for native plants and animals. Some are even hazardous to human health.
The Invasive Plants Working Group developed a five-year strategy to manage and control invasive plants in West Vancouver.
Invasive Plant Species in West Vancouver
There are 19 species identified in the District’s Invasive Plants Strategy to target for management and control in West Vancouver.
In fall 2023, the District is focusing on the removal of English ivy and supporting residents in removing ivy from their property. Select English ivy from the following list to learn about how you can help this initiative.
- Blackberry species
- Butterfly bush
- Cherry laurel (English laurel)
- Clematis – old man’s beard (traveller’s joy)
- English holly
- English ivy
- Giant hogweed
- Gorse
- Goutweed
- Hawkweed (orange)
- Knotweed species
- Lamium (yellow archangel)
- Periwinkle
- Policeman’s helmet (Himalayan balsam)
- Purple loosestrife
- Reed canarygrass
- Scotch broom
- Small flowered touch-me-not
- Spurge laurel (Daphne laurel)
Find out more about the target list and best management practices for these plants:
Target List/Best Management Practices (PDF)
High-priority / Dangerous Invasive Plants
The top two invasive plant species are knotweed and giant hogweed. These two species have the potential to affect human health, damage infrastructure and degrade natural ecosystems. Learn how to identify them and what you should do in the event that you find one.