Common reeds (Phragmites australis), at Back Bay.
I find it hard not to like this plant. I sat for a half hour watching a raft of canvasback ducks and coots at the refuge this morning, and listening to a light breeze sussurating in the reeds. Is it possible to hate a plant that makes such sweet sounds? I know it is an aggressive invader, and as an informed ecologist I am supposed to be Concerned and Alarmed about its proliferation, but I am in the process of studying and rethinking my stance on invasives and their roles in ecosystem dynamics, and I am conflicted. As a member of what is possibly the world’s most disruptive invasive species isn’t it hypocritical to label another organism invasive and reflexively campaign for its eradication?
