Because of its invasive nature, starting this year, Japanese barberry cannot be sold in Maine.

Fish said it’s preventing native plants from growing and doesn’t provide the food or habitat wildlife needs.

…Studies suggest Japanese barberry may be fueling the spread of Lyme disease.

“They’re definitely a tick magnet . They’re very much a tick magnet and they not only are a tick magnet; they’re a mouse magnet and mice is where Lyme disease is reservoired,” Fish said.

Popular plant linked to Lyme disease is now banned in Maine | WGME

hmm