invasive

Bamboo is often cut down and ripped out of parks, because it is an invasive species that crowds out native plants. But a Baltimore-based company called Bambeco and others transform what some consider a nuisance weed into an amazing array of products, from picture frames to flooring and towels.

Phragmites, an invasive species of reed believed to have been introduced to North America from England, is often seen as a monster because the grass stalks grow three times the height of a man and drive out native plants and wildlife.  But some scientists suggest the plant is more of a Jekyll and Hyde, because while it is bad for plant diversity, it may be good at protecting shorelines from erosion caused by rising sea levels and climate change.