Chanhassen, MN
Home MenuBuckthorn & Invasive Plants
Overview
Non-native plants that spread quickly and displace native species are considered invasive and threaten our city's public and private natural areas. The city recommends that homeowners remove any invasive plants found on their property. Once removed, these plants should be bagged and taken to a disposal facility or left on site. Disposal options include dropping them off at an area compost facility or having your hauler collect them. Many of these species reproduce quickly by seeds or roots, so thorough eradication and removal of the plants is necessary. Be aware that invasive species and native plants can have similar appearances. Please contact the city or a professional for proper identification before beginning any removals. The city allows invasive species removal within Conservation or Tree Preservation Easements. Contact the Environmental Resources Specialist before any removal work.
Besides buckthorn, some of the more common invasive plants in Chanhassen are garlic mustard, exotic honeysuckle, thistles, black locust trees, and Siberian elm. Other invasive plants in limited areas include wild parsnip, Japanese knotweed, and leafy spurge. Click here for a complete list of invasive plants and insects.
Buckthorn
Buckthorn is an invasive species commonly found in many of the wooded areas in Chanhassen. The city encourages residents to learn about this woody plant and eradicate it where possible. The Minnesota DNR has an excellent publication about the plant and how to remove it.
Common Buckthorn
To identify common buckthorn, look for:
- Twigs with two terminal buds surrounding a ‘thorn.’
- Leaves pointed at the tip with toothed and prominent veins.
- Light yellowish green flowers.
- Berry-like fruit that ripens from green to dark purple.
- Bark with raised spots and orange inner bark.
Glossy Buckthorn
To identify glossy buckthorn, look for:
- Rust colored terminal buds.
- Oval, glossy, and toothless leaves.
- Light-yellowish green flowers.
- Berry-like fruits that ripen from green to red to dark purple.
- Bark with light raised spots.
- Twigs and bark do not have thorns.
- Found in wetland areas.