Top 5 invasive plant species disrupting India’s ecosystems

India’s ecosystems host a growing number of plants that did not originate here, but have adapted and spread rapidly. Many were introduced during the colonial period for ornamental or ecological reasons and have since taken over large parts of land and water.

These species compete with native plants for sunlight, water and nutrients, and alter soil quality. Some have even resulted in losses for farmers and local communities that depend on fisheries and agriculture.

Due to their invasive nature, they often pose a threat to the local flora and fauna.

Here are five of the most common invasive plant species found across India:

1. Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia Crassipes)

Originally from South America, this aquatic plant was introduced to India during the British rule as an ornamental species. It produces purple flowers and floats on freshwater bodies such as rivers, lakes and ponds. The plant grows fast and blocks sunlight and oxygen, affecting fishery, and transport. This is highly invasive and removing it is a costly and labour-intensive process.

2. Prosopis Juliflora

Native to Mexico, South America and the Caribbean, this small tree was brought to Delhi by the British in the 1920s. Known locally as Bellary jaali, seemai karuvelam, gando baval and vilayati kikar, it grows in arid and semi-arid areas. It thrives in all kinds of soil, from sand dunes to saline land. The tree consumes large amounts of water to grow affecting the groundwater level and releases more carbon dioxide than oxygen, making it unsuitable even for birds.

Prosopis Juliflora grows in arid and semi-arid areas. (Source: Wikimedia Commons)

3. Parthenium (Parthenium Hysterophorus)

This weed spreads across America, Asia, Africa and Australia. It causes respiratory allergies, dermatitis and other health problems in humans and livestock. It also reduces crop yield by releasing chemicals that suppress other plants. Control measures include burning, herbicides and biological methods using insects and fungi. Despite its harmful effects, studies have explored its possible medicinal uses, including treatment for inflammation, malaria and rheumatic pain.

4. Hyptis (Hyptis Suaveolens)

This fast-spreading plant forms dense thickets that crowd out native species and alter soil composition. It produces aromatic leaves and seeds that spread easily through animals, wind and water. The plant purportedly has shown benefits in traditional medicine used for fever, pain and infections.

5. Lantana (Lantana Camara)

Native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, Lantana camara now grows widely across India. Introduced for its colourful flowers, it has spread across forests, farmlands and wastelands. It competes with native vegetation and affects biodiversity.