Common Knotweed is a
native
annual plant of the UK, typically found growing in cropland, gardens and waste ground, to a mature height of up to 30cm.
The name 'Knotweed' or 'Knotgrass' is used as a descriptive name for plants which have 'knots' formed of swollen growth nodes, covered by papery sheaths, where branching occurs and where leaves and flowers emerge directly from the stem. The genus name 'Polygonum' is thought to derive from 'many joints' (referring to the swollen nodes) or 'many seeds' (as each plant can produce about 6,000 seeds). The species name 'aviculare' meaning 'small bird' may refer to the plant's attraction for seed-eating birds or may be descriptive of the appearance of the emerging pointed fruits as they ripen in a 'nest' of small tepals.
Botanic classification and naming: Common Knotweed is a member of the Knotweed (Polygonaceae) family. The genus name
'Polygonum' identifies the plant as a Knotweed and its species name 'aviculare' means 'small bird'.
Concerns: Knotweed can be a persistent weed of agricultural land as its seeds remain viable for many years, germinating when the soil is disturbed and they reach light. It also has tough roots, making it difficult to remove.
Benefits: Provides a food source for seed-eating birds.
Benefits to wildlife are also indicated with orange icons in the plant profile bar at the top.
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