Why be concerned if a plant is invasive or a native wildflower?
It is extremely important to research any plant, edible or not, that you are considering putting into your landscape. Many plants found labeled as “native plants” or wildflowers for your area may in fact be considered an invasive pest. How would you find out? Research. Governmental agencies and universities have databases that you can consult. Check your State and local agencies for invasive lists pertinent to the area in which you live.

Here are a few links:

http://www.invasivespecies.net

Global Invasive Database on all Species: plants, animals, insects etc..

http://www.invasive.org

Database of Invasive and Exotic species of North America

http://plants.usda.gov/java/noxiousDriver

Invasive and Noxious Weeds: Find out which ones are invasive in your state

http://plants.usda.gov/java/noxious?rpt Type=Federal

List of Federal Noxious Weeds

http://www.usna.gov/Gardens/invasives.html

This is the United States National Arboretum site. Very informative and has links to each states resources

Please search for your local Country, State, County, etc. lists to prevent introducing a plant that is considered a noxious invasive in your area. Native flora populations are put at great risk when a vigorous introduction out competes them for light, nutrients and space.

An excellent example of this is Garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata)- it is an edible plant but it is so aggressive in its growth habits that is totally takes over an area. No local flora can repopulate and survive its onslaught. A very serious invasive pest indeed. Please take the time to protect your local environments from plants that become noxious weeds. Please watch the following video:

http://www.sustainablegardeningblog.com/archives/1586

I was researching a site and the list of plants considered invasive pests were ones that other sites list as native plants to the State! Shows the importance of checking local area lists.