From MSU Extension:
The non-native sub species of Phragmites australis has become a widespread problem in Michigan and surrounding Great Lakes states. Hundreds of acres of wetlands and shorelines are being overrun by this aggressive and invasive plant. It has caused many wetland areas to see changes in the native plants communities – being replaced by phragmites causes serious ecological, economic and social issues. Many areas of the state have received funds to carry out widespread phragmites management programs to take back wetlands from this invasive plant. One such program, the Ottawa County Invasive Phragmites Control Group, is occurring along the Grand River near Grand Haven, Michigan in Ottawa County.
Michigan State University Extension encourages ornamental nursery plant growers to scout fields to be sure this invasive species does not show up in your nursery stock production. Photo 1 shows a mature plant, and I suspect a nursery will only see a much smaller-sized plant if detected in a production field. It is a concern to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development nursery inspectors and if found, will cause the field to be restricted. That being said, growers need to be able to recognize the plant.
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