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Japanese Knotweed is a
non-native invasive
perennial plant of the UK, typically found growing in roadsides and waste ground, to a mature height of up to 300cm.
Japanese Knotweed is a large, vigorous and strongly invasive plant originating from the Far East. It was introduced into the UK in the early nineteenth century as a garden plant, but is now usually found growing wild on wasteland. The plant grows in thick stands, with reddish bamboo-like stems. These bear large, bright-green, heart-shaped leaves during the growing season and panicles of tiny white flowers in late summer. Although the plant dies back over winter, it is perennial and very difficult to eradicate, owing to its tough and persistent rhizomes. Japanese Knotweed cultivation and disposal falls under legal control in the UK (see 'Concerns' below).
Botanic classification and naming: Japanese Knotweed is a member of the Knotweed (Polygonaceae) family. The genus name
'Fallopia' identifies the plant as a Knotweed and its species name 'japonica' means 'Japanese plant'.
Concerns: This weed is listed as an 'invasive non-native' plant under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, prohibiting it from being planted, or caused to grow, in the wild. This would include, for example, introduction into the wild through the disposal of roots, plant material and seeds in garden waste or contaminated soil.
Benefits: Provides a habitat and food chain for insects, spiders, frogs and grass snakes. However, the benefits to this plant are far outweighed by the problems it causes, especially in urban environments, and it should be removed following professional advice.
Benefits to wildlife are also indicated with orange icons in the plant profile bar at the top.
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