I've noticed that both Tree of Heaven and running Bamboo get a lot of flak in gardening discussions. I'm curious to know which one is actually more aggressive in spreading. What are your thoughts?
4 Answers
Neither of them thrive where I am, but I can tell you that creeping bellflower is definitely the villain in my frozen part of the world! It's the most hated plant around here, haha!
Honestly, I think Bamboo is just plain evil! If I had my way, I'd add bindweed to that evil list too!
In urban settings, I'd say Tree of Heaven definitely takes the crown for being more problematic. But outside of those areas, running Bamboo, or even its cold climate cousin like knotweed, can be just as bad. Honestly, all three plants can be a real pain!
Tree of Heaven is notorious for its seeds which are quite eager to germinate. For Bamboo, while it spreads through its roots, I haven't seen it become invasive in forests like Tree of Heaven does. So, I personally think Tree of Heaven is worse when it comes to invasiveness.

I can relate! My neighbors planted a Tree of Heaven and a carrotwood for privacy, and now my summer's filled with pulling out those annoying suckers from my yard. It's a nightmare!