Abstract:
Beach vitex was introduced into the southeastern United States from Korea in the 1980s. Scientists believed the plant could help stabilize sand dunes. Beach vitex now grows as far north as Ocracoke Island and as far south as Florida and Alabama. Heavy concentrations are also found on Bogue Banks, Bald Head Island, and Oak Island. Experts in North Carolina are seeking to have the plant listed as a Federal Noxious Weed. North and South Carolina's two-state task force has worked to stop the plant's spread.