Origin:
Native to eastern North America, and occurring in the United States from Minnesota southeast to Georgia and along the entire east coast except for Florida.
Biology:
A perennial that reproduces with spores and from underground rhizomes. Plants grow to around 2 feet in height and are capable of forming dense thickets, usually in semi-shaded habitats along the edges of wooded areas. This plant is a protected species in several states.
Identification:
Stems are stiff and fibrous, and are a red color and have a rough, scaly texture to them. The leaves are around 5 or 6 inches in length and also have a rough texture to them. They are deeply cut into large serrations along either side of the mid-vein, the serrate sections alternating along the vein.
Characteristicts Important to Control:
There is no need to control this plant when growing in natural areas.