11 Spreading Shrubs You'll Regret Planting

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Tansy

Also known as common tansy, cow buttons and bitter burrows, Tanacetum vulgare, or tansy, is native to warm parts of Europe and Asia. It has been introduced to North America, where in some places it’s considered an invasive plant.

The tall reddish stalks and bright yellow, button-like flowers are certainly eye catching, but this plant shouldn’t be allowed anywhere near your yard. Not only are the leaves and flowers toxic, but consumption of the plant can cause liver and brain damage, along with convulsions. Even if you don’t routinely eat the plants in your yard, best be safe and stay away from tansy.

Pro Tip: Instead of spending hours digging out a stubborn shrub, check how to remove shrubs without breaking your back.

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Privet

Pruning a privet hedge is like painting the Golden Gate Bridge — once you’re done, you turn around and start over. At least it seems that way.

Privet (Ligustrum spp.) grows so quickly that it has to be pruned four to five times a year to keep that neat-and-clean look. It does provide privacy, but doesn’t have much beauty. And if you fall behind on the trimming, it will quickly become unkempt. If you’re able to stay on top of maintenance, i.e. keeping your privet trimmed, then you’ll be fine, but if you want low-maintenance landscaping, avoid this one.

For a gardener, there’s nothing worse than watching your hard work get overrun with weeds. Try these methods to avoid or control the growth of invasive garden plants in your garden.