I frequently have conversations with people about plants. Plants they have on their property, or are considering growing, or the names or characteristics of plants. During the conversation I usually mention that this or that plant is a native or it is an exotic (introduced from far away). Very often my comment is greeted with a blank stare or a quizzical look as if to say, “What difference does that make?” Or, “Who cares?” Well, actually, it makes a big difference.