Japanese Knotweed

Japanese knotweed or Asian knotweed is the nightmare weed of property owners. A large, herbaceous perennial plant of the knotweed and buckwheat family Polygonaceae, Japanese Knotweed is a regularly discussed nuisance for home owners and even discussed at government level on how it should be treated and even be the basis of many a court cases claiming damages.

"Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) is a weed that spreads rapidly. In winter the plant dies back to ground level but by early summer the bamboo-like stems emerge from rhizomes deep underground to shoot to over 2.1m (7ft), suppressing all other plant growth." source RHS

Most times, just like any other weed, online topics focuses on how to eradicate them rather than grow them. Though this(perennial) weed tends to like more man made locations such as road sides and property, it is also found near to and on the banks of stream / rivers.

Visually it looks a lot like bamboo wit larger style green, shovel shaped leaves with white powdery flowers.

Japanese Knotweed can sometimes be found growing next to building and when it does it can have an adverse effect both on the appeal of the property to buyers and also costs to the owners. Though it can be cut down to root level, the root system can continue to survive for up to 20 years and is notorious for growing around, exploiting gaps and damaging underground drainage pipes / systems. It will also effect the likes of paving / out door tiling, asphalt and more. You will require specialist professionals in order to treat and for the long term removal of Japanese Knotweed. You can also be held accountable if you allow Japanese Knotweed to grow and spread to neighbouring land / property.

Title image: Pixabay