The Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis) is a very destructive wood-boring beetle native to Asia. It was discovered in North America in July 2002, and has become established in Michigan, New York, Ohio and Ontario (Canada). Millions of ash trees have been killed in the northeastern US. Although the borer has not been detected in Florida (Dec. 2011), the presence of ash trees and the ongoing movement of wood, trees and cargo into the state make Florida an area where the beetle could potentially become established. Your help is needed to detect possible infestations so they can be quickly eradicated...if you see it, contact the Florida Division of Forestry. Use in wet settings to improve the aesthetics of drainage ponds and swales. This is a good plant to retain in natural wetlands as it is frequently used for roosting by wading birds. Often multi-trunked.

Specimen plant. Forms a large rosette of spine-tipped leaves. Flower stalks rise to 6-8 ft.

Listed as Endangered in Florida. Specimen tree prized for its dark green foliage.