It's easy to see why a showy plant with an abundance of magenta wands is still in cultivation, available in many states where regulations haven't prohibited its sale. Gardeners would be wise to follow the lead of Minnesota and Illinois, which won't allow the sale or distribution of this invasive wetland plant. In marshes, along river banks, and even in ditches, this plant forms dense stands that provide no value to wildlife. Native beauties with a similar appearance include liatris for dry areas, and red cardinal flower for moist gardens.