05/29/2026
Pennsylvania Invasive Species: Japanese Stiltgrass
Explore the invasion history, ecology, and management of Japanese stiltgrass, one of the most challenging invasives in the Eastern United States, and gain insight into when and whether control is needed.
Japanese stiltgrass (Microstegium vimineum) is widely regarded as one of the most problematic invasive plants in the Eastern United States, yet its unique ecological traits also make it a particularly intriguing species. This session explores the invasion history, biology, and ecology of Japanese stiltgrass, with an emphasis on how these characteristics influence its spread and persistence. By building a clearer understanding of how, where, and why this species thrives, participants will gain valuable insight into effective—and in some cases selective—approaches to management and decision-making.
Pennsylvania has identified over 250 invasive plants, insects, pathogens, and animals that significantly impact the environment and agricultural production—causing hundreds of millions of dollars in economic losses each year. The Pennsylvania Invasive Species Webinar Series is dedicated to addressing this critical issue. Each session highlights timely topics related to invasive species in Pennsylvania and beyond, including species identification, management strategies, ecological impacts, or key concepts in invasion biology. The series is designed to be accessible to a wide audience. Whether you're a gardener, naturalist, land manager, educator, or simply curious about invasive species, these webinars provide a clear introduction to the issues at hand—no prior knowledge required. By raising awareness and sharing practical information, the series aims to empower communities and spotlight the ongoing efforts of state agencies and partners working to protect Pennsylvania's landscapes and resources.
Who is this for?
Conservation volunteer educators
Green industry professionals
Master Gardeners
Individuals interested in learning about invasive species
What will you learn?
The origin and invasion history of Japanese stiltgrass in the Eastern United States
Key biological and ecological traits that make stiltgrass so successful
The growth patterns and habitat preferences that influence its spread
Insights into when, where, and whether management is truly necessary
When: June 5, 2026 (1:00 PM-2:15 PM ET)
This event is being offered at no charge to participants.
Registration is required to receive the link to access the webinar.
A link to the recorded webinar will be emailed to registrants within ten business days after the live event. The recording will be accessible for six months from the event date.
https://extension.psu.edu/pennsylvania-invasive-species-japanese-stiltgrass
