Florida has more non-native species of plants established in the state than has any other state in the continental U.S.; the vast majority of these species are harmless. As settlement and population increased and additional exotic species were introduced at increasing rates, some non-native species were able to obtain the edge needed for exponential growth. Among the weeds discussed are those that demonstrate different types of entry, ecological systems, and control. Weeds representing the potential of a small population, a major escaped ornamental, rapid expansion in vegetables, major pests in tree crops, utilization of a biocontrol, distribution in turf, major invaders along roadsides and into open lands and pastures, and exotic aquatic weeds are discussed.
