Invasive Phragmites creates tall, dense stands of grass which degrade coastal areas and wetlands by crowding out native plants and animals, blocking shoreline views, reducing access for swimming, fishing and hunting and, in addition, can create fire hazards from the build-up of dry plant material. Phragmites typically grows on coastal beaches and wetlands, roadside ditches and other low, wet areas, although occasionally it has been found to grow in dry areas.
Phragmites typically colonizes a new area from seeds or small fragments of rhizomes (underground stems), dispersed by water, animals, machinery and humans. Once established, new stems grow from the underground rhizomes and the plant begins to spread. During the growing season, rhizomes spread horizontally in all directions and, when fragmented, readily develop into new plants.
Seeds – as well as rhizomes broken by natural actions such as waves, or human actions such as dredging, tilling or operating motorized vehicles along beaches – quickly spread and take root in new locations.
Rapid expansion is promoted by disturbances that give this invasive plant a competitive edge, including soil disturbance and the clearing of vegetation.
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