In California we are lucky to live in a mild climate that allows us to grow amazing landscapes. Because of this mild climate, plants from other parts of the world often thrive; and some grow so well that they become invasive. These plants ‘jump fences’ and ‘throw seeds.’ Their root and stem fragments spread into our natural areas threatening our biodiversity and ecology. They grow quickly and crowd our native vegetation, blocking streams which can cause flooding, and their biomass can become a serious fire hazard.