Botanical (Latin) plant names. Knowing the botanical name of a plant tells you exactly what you are getting when shopping for plants. If you rely on the common name, you risk buying one plant when you thought you were getting another. Latin names consist of two words, the capitalized genus name, and the lowercase species name. The species name usually describes the plant, for example, horizontalis means creeping. Sometimes, a variety name follows the species name. For example, Juniperus (genus) horizontalis (species) 'Blue Chip' (variety) is a creeping blue juniper.
Invasive ornamentals are garden plants that tend to spread beyond their intended area, even beyond the garden. They become noxious weeds when they successfully compete with native plants for nutrients, sun, and water.
Noxious weeds are not native to this area. They grow unchecked by natural enemies-- insects or diseases. Apparently harmless and pretty flowers, such as leucanthemum vulgare (oxeye daisy), Lythrum salicaria (purple loosestrife), Hesperis matrolaldes (dame's rocket), or yellow toadflax "butter and eggs," are aggressive; out-competing native plants. Non-native weeds have already displaced about 10 percent of Colorado's native plants. Under state law, landowners are responsible for controlling noxious weeds on their property. If you have concerns about any plant on your property that may be a noxious weed, contact your local Colorado State Cooperative Extension office.
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