If you’ve been gardening long enough, chances are you’ve fallen for a plant that seemed like a dream — only to discover it was a nightmare bent on taking over your yard.
Maybe you’re still battling it to this day.
To help you dodge that same fate, here’s a rundown of common garden plants that seem innocent enough… until they’re not. Whether you’re planning your first garden bed or revamping your backyard, this guide will save you from a serious case of gardener’s remorse.
And hey, if you just can’t resist growing one of these, don’t worry — I’ve also included tips to keep them in check.
1. Mint (All Varieties)
Why You’ll Regret It:
Mint spreads like it’s on a mission. Underground rhizomes and above-ground runners make it almost impossible to control once it’s in the soil. One little sprig can become a full-blown mint invasion.
Contain It:
Grow mint in a pot. Want it in the ground? Bury the pot, but leave a few inches sticking out. Be ruthless about trimming any runners trying to make a break for freedom.
True story: I planted mint for mojitos. If I used it all, I’d need a liver transplant.
2. Morning Glory
Why You’ll Regret It:
Morning glory starts off sweet with its heart-shaped leaves and cheerful flowers. Then it turns into a monster, smothering nearby plants and rooting from every node it touches. Seeds can stay dormant in the soil for decades.
Contain It:
Stick to containers or window boxes. Deadhead those blooms so they don’t drop seeds and multiply. Trust me — it’s way easier to enjoy their charm this way.
3. Sunchokes (Jerusalem Artichokes)
Why You’ll Regret It:
Sunchokes are delicious and native to North America, but they spread aggressively underground and are tough to remove once they’ve settled in.
Contain It:
Plant them in a raised bed and harvest often. Cut flowers before they seed, and don’t let them wander.
They’re edible, healthy, and tasty… but only if you can keep them from eating your garden first.
4. Chinese Wisteria
Why You’ll Regret It:
This gorgeous vine might make your pergola look like something out of a fairytale — right before it rips apart your gutters, fences, or any tree it climbs. It’s invasive in 19 U.S. states.
Contain It (or better yet, skip it):
Don’t plant it. Period. If you want wisteria’s look, go for the native American wisteria (Wisteria frutescens) instead — it’s much better behaved.
5. Trumpet Vine
Why You’ll Regret It:
This vine has nicknames like “Hell Vine” and “Devil’s Shoelace” — which should tell you everything you need to know. It spreads by seed and root runners and is hard to contain once established.
Contain It:
If you plant it, stay on top of pruning — every year. Better yet, grow it in a large container with a sturdy support. But be warned: even then, it may still try to escape.
6. Fish Mint
Why You’ll Regret It:
Known as fish mint, lizard tail, or chameleon plant, this edible and medicinal herb is beloved in Southeast Asia — and loathed in many gardens. Its smell alone can be a dealbreaker, and its roots are relentless.
Contain It:
Only plant fish mint in a pot. Far away from anything else you care about. And if you’re unsure, maybe skip it entirely unless you love the taste.
7. Ditch Lilies (Tiger Daylilies)
Why You’ll Regret It:
They’re pretty and edible, but don’t let that fool you. Ditch lilies spread fast and aggressively, often outcompeting native plants. Some places have banned them entirely.
Contain It:
Honestly? Just don’t plant them. There are plenty of native or non-invasive daylilies that are just as beautiful — and way easier to live with.
8. English Ivy
Why You’ll Regret It:
English ivy looks elegant climbing up walls and trellises… until it keeps climbing — and smothering — everything in sight. It can damage buildings, kill trees, and become a long-term landscaping nightmare.
Contain It:
Grow it in a pot indoors. (Ironically, that’s probably the only way to kill it.)
One gardening site recommended planting ivy to replace Creeping Charlie. That’s like putting out a fire with gasoline.
9. Bamboo
Why You’ll Regret It:
This one’s the ultimate garden horror story. Bamboo (especially the running variety) spreads fast, sends roots under fences, and is nearly impossible to get rid of. Plus, it releases natural herbicides to kill off other plants nearby. Nice.
Contain It:
If you must have bamboo, choose a clumping variety and keep it in a large container. Better yet, don’t plant it at all. It’s expensive, invasive, and rarely worth the trouble.
Seriously — unless you’re planting it in your enemy’s yard (don’t), skip the bamboo.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let These Plants Fool You
Look, plants are great at doing what they’re meant to do — growing. But some take that job a little too seriously. Before planting anything new, especially something fast-growing or trendy, do a little research first.
If you still love the look of any of the plants on this list, try:
- Growing them in containers
- Using native alternatives
- Consulting your local extension office for safe, non-invasive options
Take Action Before You Plant
Your garden should be a place of peace, not war. So before you pick up something pretty at the nursery, check if it’s a plant you’ll end up battling later.
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