Monday, December 13, 2010

Largest Infestation of Oriental Bittersweet

On Friday, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture found the largest infestation of oriental bittersweet in Winona, Minnesota. State officials fear its impact if the invasive plant spreads along the Mississippi River. Oriental bittersweet closely resembles the native plant, American bittersweet, with its woody vine and colorful fruit. American bittersweet is often used for holiday decorations, so be cautious and make sure you do not use Oriental bittersweet instead. Oriental bittersweet has already taken over more than two dozen states and its results can be devastating. Click here to read more.

To compare Oriental bittersweet and American bittersweet, go to our Bugwood Image Database System at www.images.bugwood.org.