What is a “native” tree species?
• A hard question! One answer is that native tree species grow naturally in the wild. • Usually, the contrast is made between a native and an exotic (or introduced) species. • But certain trees and shrubs introduced since 1600 (e.g., common buckthorn) are now widespread. • Also, a native in one region of New York may easily not be native elsewhere in the state or the NE, much less the entire country. Why does it matter? • In recent years, there has been heated debate about native vs. exotic species. • Some people want to avoid an invasion of exotic species into the natural landscape. • Others argue that native species resist pests better, and thus are easier to maintain. • Some believe that natives are better adapted, so are less stressed by climate extremes. • And a few people just seem to want no “foreigners” around, period! Are these claims true about the virtues of native species? • There is no single or simple answer to this question. • Some exotics (like Norway maple or Tree-of-H
