02/17/2026
Invasive Species Alert: Chinaberry
Introduced from Asia in the mid-1800s, chinaberry is a fast-growing deciduous tree that can reach 50 feet tall. Its lacy leaves and fragrant, lavender spring flowers may seem appealing, but the yellow berries are poisonous and can linger on the tree long after leaves fall.
Chinaberry spreads aggressively, especially in riparian areas and disturbed sites, forming dense thickets that crowd out native plants. It resists insects and disease, sprouts readily from roots, and alters soil chemistry, raising nitrogen and pH levels in ways that prevent native plants from germinating.
Even worse, chemicals in its leaves interfere with insect digestion, and all parts of the plant—especially the fruit—are toxic.
Chinaberry will be a prime target during THE BIG PULL, Feb 23-March 8! Let's make an impact during National Invasive Species Week and beyond by removing invasive species and supporting healthy native ecosystems across Texas.
Get involved: https://www.npsot.org/posts/join-us-for-the-big-pull/
More about Chinaberry https://www.npsot.org/posts/invasive-plant/melia-azedarach/
