• Japanese knotweed is an invasive non-native species (INNS), meaning it causes environmental and economic damage.
• It was introduced from Japan in the 19th Century by the Victorians as an ornamental plant. It didn’t cause any issues at first, but then after about 100 years growing in small, localised areas it suddenly underwent a population boom.
• It spreads easily making it hard to control. Just a tiny fragment can grow up into a mature plant. Having no natural competition means there is nothing stopping the plant from spreading.
• To eradicate Japanese knotweed from the UK its thought it would cost £1.56 billion
• It likes growing in wetter areas and can grow up to 2m tall.
• You can learn more about invasive non-native species here