Japanese Hedgeparsley: A New Invasive Species That’s Spreading Rapidly

Japanese hedgeparsley, a relatively new invasive species in Wisconsin, is continuing to spread.

Initially reported in Wisconsin in 1976, hedgeparsley has spread widely in Green, Dane, and Iowa counties and has been discovered as far north as Portage County. Matt Zine, a Department of Natural Resources natural areas management specialist, says that what makes hedgeparsley so difficult is its seed: a little bur that sticks to animals and clothing.

Zine says that it is ideal to kill the plant before it begins to seed in its second year. To avoid the spread of hedgeparsley, Zine urges people to be aware of the plant and check clothing and shoelaces for burs before leaving wooded areas.