Scotch Broom, a perennial shrub, was introduced to British Columbia around 1850. Its intention was for gardens, though its invasive nature soon spread through the natural habitat. It will acidify the surrounding soil which prevents other species from flourishing near it, making it a predator in the plant world. It can grow up to 3 meters tall and begins to reproduce when it is approximately three years old and can live up to 15 years.After flowering, it forms black seeds that disperse after the pods audibly 'pop' open. It is known as a 'prolific see producer' with up to 18,000 seeds per plant which spread by wind, animals, water and humans. The seeds are protected with a seed coat that can delay germination for up to 30 years.