Weeds: Friend or Foe?

Pink sorrel is probably the most commonly found in Houston yards. All parts of the plant are rich in vitamin C and oxalic acid, which has immune system benefits in low doses. However, be aware that high volumes of oxalic acid can hurt your kidneys.

Not to be confused with its native cousin, Coral Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempivirens), Japanese honeysuckle is invasive growing up to 80 feet tall with devastating effects on natural communities.

While I have seen this forb quickly overtake a garden bed, I also have found, to my relief, that it has shallow roots and an obedient personality. I like to let it thrive in disturbed areas, warding off any more noxious invaders, until I find something else to plant there. If you are looking for a no-mow lawn alternative, consider horseherb.

AKA heavenly bamboo, nandina, can quickly form a root colony that can be tough to remove. It can also be spread through its toxic berries.

With its characteristic leaf shape, the rapidly growing Chinese tallow is easy to identify. A deciduous tree with incredibly soft wood means it will drop seeds and release tannins that your other plants will find unfavorable or intolerable.

There are many native species of dandelion in Texas. All parts of this herb are edible and antimicrobial. They also attract pollinators, like the Syrphid fly, which eats aphids. No need to weed; they are annuals that will die naturally after producing seeds.

Pink Evening Primrose, sometimes called buttercup can quickly form a colony in disturbed sites or on dormant lawns. Their spectacle of abundant pink blooms may cause the HOA to turn up their noses, but these species are actually native sources of nectar for native bees, and their seeds provide food for birds.

Many species of dewberry and blackberry are native to Houston and might turn up in your ditch or garden. Be aware that these edible berries come with a price: many thorny vines can form a bramble. Prune and harvest carefully.

Chinese privet is one of the most invasive species in North America. It can grow to 20 ft with multiple stems. It can grow pretty much anywhere: found in fields, rivers, and roadsides. Eradication can be difficult.