Indiana has rich biodiversity with thousands of species in unique habitats, but the ornamental plant trade, globalization and development have introduced new threats to these ecosystems. IndyStar is highlighting some of the invasive species putting our natural landscape at risk and how you can help combat their spread.

One of Indiana's peskiest invasive plants, oriental bittersweet , was bought, sold and adored for almost 100 years in the United States before horticulturists started to raise concerns about the species.

Brought over from the lowlands of Eastern Asia, oriental bittersweet was primarily admired for its beauty. The thick, snarling vines that produced bright yellow leaves and orange berries were sought after for holiday wreaths, private landscaping, and the grounds of

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