Arizona regulates invasive plants through the Arizona Department of Agriculture's prohibited and regulated plant pest list. Maricopa County restricts certain allergen-producing species. Phoenix prohibits planting Mulberry trees (Morus genus) and Olive trees (Olea europaea) due to severe pollen allergies.
Phoenix and Maricopa County have notable plant restrictions focused on public health (pollen allergies) rather than just invasive potential. Phoenix City Code Section 24-46 prohibits planting Mulberry trees (Morus genus, except fruitless varieties) within the city due to severe allergenic pollen. Olive trees (Olea europaea, except fruitless varieties) are also prohibited for the same reason. These restrictions are unique among major US cities. The Arizona Department of Agriculture maintains a list of prohibited and regulated plant pests. Key invasive species of concern in the Phoenix area include: Buffelgrass (Pennisetum ciliare/Cenchrus ciliaris) — a major fire threat to the Sonoran Desert ecosystem. Fountain grass (Pennisetum setaceum). Sahara mustard (Brassica tournefortii). Stinknet/Globe chamomile (Oncosiphon piluliferum). Tamarisk/Salt cedar (Tamarix spp.) — regulated along waterways. The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and local conservation groups actively work on invasive species removal.
Planting prohibited Mulberry or Olive trees in Phoenix can result in fines under the City Code. Property owners may be required to remove prohibited trees. Intentional introduction of state-listed plant pests can result in penalties under Arizona agricultural law.
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See how Phoenix's prohibited species rules stack up against other locations.
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