Native Plant Garden at the Rotary Centennial Nature Center
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Brazillian Pepper
 
Exotic Plant Management at the Park:

There are a number of exotic plants on the island, the most noticeable being the Brazilian pepper, which is extremely fast growing and competitive, destroying native habitats very quickly. Its rapid, sprawling growth pattern allows it to cover large areas of ground in a short time. The heavy shade and tangled branches virtually eliminate understory and nearby native plants. Brazilian pepper does not suffer much in prescribed burns. Birds readily redistribute the seeds, contributing to an ongoing problem. Other exotics which are managed at the park include Cogon Grass, Rosary Pea, and Australian Pine. Lantana is also exotic and somewhat invasive, but is currently not a major target for control here at Honeymoon Island.


Invasive plants not only keep native plants from flourishing, but remove the source of food and shelter needed by native animals. The park removes non-native plants in a program that may require three laborious steps, depending on the plant:

By completing one or more of the following steps, an area can be returned to its optimal natura environmental condition in which the native plants and animals can grow again and regain dominance.

Ways to Control Exotic Plants:
  • Remove the plant physically
  • Gather and remove seeds
  • Apply herbicide directly to plant
  • Fire, either natural or prescribed
Brazilian Pepper
 
Cogon Grass
Cogon Grass
 
Hairy Beach Sunflower
Rosary Pea
 
Australian Pine
Australian Pine
 
Lantana
Lantana