A popular TikTok is sounding the alarm on one of the most common — and most harmful — trees planted in yards across the United States. Landscape expert Captain Coop (@cooper.little24) took to the platform to warn homeowners about the Bradford pear tree, a fast-growing ornamental that he called "public enemy number one."
The video has racked up attention thanks to its no-nonsense breakdown of how the Bradford pear, once popular for its spring blossoms, has turned into a menace. "Bradford pear trees are extremely invasive and are ugly, stinky, and brittle," Cooper explained in the description.
@cooper.little24 Bradford pear trees are extremely invasive and are ugly, stinky, and brittle. So cut it down and plant something native like a Dog wood! #nativetiktok #nativenursery #nativeplants #bradfordpear #landscape #plants ♬ original sound - Captain Coop
What looks like a quick way to beautify a yard actually comes with serious problems. The Bradford pear tree weakens over time, leading to dangerous limb breakage that can cause homeowners financial loss and frustration. Worse, the tree's invasive root system spreads aggressively, crowding out native plants and disrupting ecosystems. Birds carry the tree's seeds far beyond where it's planted, making it especially difficult to control.
For homeowners, removing these trees can become a costly headache since cutting them down doesn't always solve the problem — new sprouts can emerge from the roots left behind. That's why experts encourage rethinking landscaping choices from the start.
Fortunately, there are plenty of beautiful and eco-friendly alternatives. Choosing native plants, clover, buffalo grass, or xeriscaping not only reduces maintenance but also saves on watering costs. Even replacing part of a traditional lawn with these options can help create a healthier ecosystem for pollinators — essential creatures that support our food supply.
The warning resonated with viewers, who flocked to the comments to share their experiences. One user wrote, "Our whole neighborhood is filled with these, and they're a nightmare to deal with." Another added, "Had to cut ours down last year after it split in half — never again." A third summed up the general mood more bluntly: "These trees should be illegal."
This viral moment is more than just a landscaping lesson — it's a reminder that the plants we choose can either harm or help the environment, and even small swaps in our yards can make a big difference.
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