What are these... tree, flowering plant and a think a weed ? - Ask Extension
The tree, about 3 to 4 feet tall is growing in my garden, as a volunteer. I've looked in my tree books but can't quite get a good identification of i...
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What are these... tree, flowering plant and a think a weed ? #947994
Asked November 01, 2026, 5:22 PM EST
The tree, about 3 to 4 feet tall is growing in my garden, as a volunteer. I've looked in my tree books but can't quite get a good identification of it.
The flowering plant is a perennial that comes up in a neighbor's yard, but it was there when she moved in a few years ago.
And, the purple flower plant took over a neighbor's garden in one summer. I suspect some sort of thistle weed.
I've sent a picture of each. Thanks for your help.
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
Green Ash tree https://campustrees.umn.edu/green-ash
Burning Bush https://extension.umn.edu/natural-resources/forestry-and-wildlife/invasive-species/burning-bush Does your plant have the distinctive winged and ridged stems?
Common Knapweed https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife-explorer/wildflowers/common-knapweed
The Burning Bush is on the Noxious Weed List as well as plants related to Common Knapweed.
https://www.mda.state.mn.us/minnesota-noxious-weed-list
I recommend removing the second and third plants on your list.
Burning Bush https://extension.umn.edu/natural-resources/forestry-and-wildlife/invasive-species/burning-bush Does your plant have the distinctive winged and ridged stems?
Common Knapweed https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife-explorer/wildflowers/common-knapweed
The Burning Bush is on the Noxious Weed List as well as plants related to Common Knapweed.
https://www.mda.state.mn.us/minnesota-noxious-weed-list
I recommend removing the second and third plants on your list.
