Researchers removed invasive Japanese stiltgrass from 8 Indiana forest sites; native plant diversity rose 24%, while herbicide-treated plots had 123% greater tree seedling density than controls

The spread of Japanese stiltgrass across eastern forests poses a significant threat to the diversity of native plants. Research indicates that this invasive grass suppresses the growth of native seedlings and wildflowers, particularly in shaded environments. Ecologists have observed a notable recovery in native plant diversity following stiltgrass removal efforts.