New Resident Who’s Wary of Planting Invasives - Ask Extension
Hi there! Recently moved to Portland and have a few things I’d like to put in the garden, but wanted some guidance before I did. Is there any info...
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New Resident Who’s Wary of Planting Invasives #927081
Asked March 30, 2026, 2:11 PM EDT
Hi there! Recently moved to Portland and have a few things I’d like to put in the garden, but wanted some guidance before I did. Is there any info on invasive tendencies when it comes to Rudbeckia laciniata, Myrrhus odorata or Asparagus verticillatus?
Multnomah County Oregon
Expert Response
HI Ryan,
Thank you for using Ask Extension.
I appreciate you using the latin names. I looked these three up for more information.
For Rudbeckia laciniata, the description of long rhizomes and thick fibrous roots, provide some pause for planting. Although a North American native, it's not native to this area. We have a pretty mild climate in the Portland metro area so when looking at growth habits on tags, plan on the highest and then add another 30%. This is particularly true of trees. If you want to plant this, I would plan on containing this similar to what is used for containing bamboo.
For Myrrhis odorata, it is described that it will self-sow similar to fennel but if you manage it, it shouldn't be a problem if you are willing to manage seedlings.
For Asparagus verticillatus, there is little information. There are other species that are considered invasive but this vine doesn't sound like a problem. Like the plant above, I would watch for self-sowing of the berries that it produces.
The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) has a website for such noxious plants for your reference
ODA : Noxious Weed Laws and Lists : Oregon Noxious Weeds : State of Oregon
Thank you for using Ask Extension.
I appreciate you using the latin names. I looked these three up for more information.
For Rudbeckia laciniata, the description of long rhizomes and thick fibrous roots, provide some pause for planting. Although a North American native, it's not native to this area. We have a pretty mild climate in the Portland metro area so when looking at growth habits on tags, plan on the highest and then add another 30%. This is particularly true of trees. If you want to plant this, I would plan on containing this similar to what is used for containing bamboo.
For Myrrhis odorata, it is described that it will self-sow similar to fennel but if you manage it, it shouldn't be a problem if you are willing to manage seedlings.
For Asparagus verticillatus, there is little information. There are other species that are considered invasive but this vine doesn't sound like a problem. Like the plant above, I would watch for self-sowing of the berries that it produces.
The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) has a website for such noxious plants for your reference
ODA : Noxious Weed Laws and Lists : Oregon Noxious Weeds : State of Oregon
