Methodology

Research approach

To identify regulated plant species comprehensively, we carried out systematic research using authoritative and reliable sources, in four steps.

1. Data collection from authoritative sources

   We reviewed and extracted information from government websites (state and provincial departments of agriculture, environmental protection and natural resources), academic institutions (university extension programs specialising in invasive and noxious plants), and reputable non-governmental organisations focused on plant conservation and invasive species management.

2. Region-specific lists

   For each state, province and country we compiled a list of regulated plant species, capturing variations in regulatory definitions (e.g. noxious, invasive) and the species classifications unique to each jurisdiction.

3. Comparison with federal lists

   Regional lists were compared with federal noxious plant lists from the relevant agencies (USDA in the United States, federal regulations in Canada, national restrictions in Australia) to identify discrepancies, overlaps and gaps between regional and national regulation.

4. Verification and cross-referencing

   Findings were cross-referenced for accuracy and consistency, including validating species names and classifications to account for synonyms and taxonomic updates.

The result is a consistent view of regulated plant species that shows where plant management policies align and diverge across jurisdictions.

Scope

The database is compiled from official regulatory lists and updated as regulations change. For each regulated plant it records:

• Common and scientific names
• Regulation status across jurisdictions
• Distribution across regions

Data sources

Regulatory sources by country or bloc, with the issuing authority and the year each list was last updated.

Release history

Each public dataset release is recorded in the dataset manifest, which this site reads for the current release and its history.