JACKSON, Miss. — The Mississippi Forestry Commission and Plan-It Geo recently launched a new online tool for communities and individuals to report sightings of the Chinese Tallow, also known as the “Popcorn” tree.

Popcorn trees may look harmless, but they are one of the top 10 worst invasive weeds in Mississippi. Popcorn Trees spread like wildfire, overtaking native vegetation, damaging wildlife habitats, and destroying nature’s balance. Popcorn trees have distinct heart-shaped leaves, dangling yellow flowers and fruit that appear similar to popcorn.

Help the Mississippi Forestry Commission stop the spread of this invasive species by reporting sightings to www.HelpStopThePop.com.

“Popcorn trees are deceptive, they look attractive and ornamental — but are actually highly invasive and will quickly damage the native ecosystem wherever they are planted,” said Todd Matthews, Urban Forestry and Forest Health Coordinator. “By reporting the location of these trees, you can help the Mississippi Forestry Commission get a full picture of Mississippi’s Popcorn Tree problem, which is the first step to combating the spread of this invasive species.”

There is no software installation needed to report a sighting, only your web browser. To get started, visit www.HelpStopThePop.com.