Invasive Species

Invasive species and particularly non-native plants are a real problem in the UK.  Invasive non-native plant and animal species are the second greatest threat to biodiversity worldwide (after habitat destruction). They can negatively impact on native species, can transform habitats and threaten whole ecosystems causing serious problems to the environment and the economy.

Examples of invasive non-native plant species are: Rhododendron ponticum, Giant hogweed, Japanese knotweed, Himalayan balsam, Spanish bluebell, Cotoneaster and aquatic plants such as Parrots feather, Floating pennywort, Water fern, Australian swamp stonecrop and Water primrose.

Invasive non-native species often take over an area so that they are the only plant growing there. This decreases plant diversity, reducing the habitat value for native herbivores and insects. In water, invasive plants cover the surface reducing light and oxygen levels, effecting other plants and animals.

What can you do to help?

Over half of the invasive species have ‘escaped’ from our gardens, so there are a three main ways that you can help:

• Do not buy invasive non-native plants from garden centres, aquatic centres, pet shops and DIY stores.  Buy native alternatives such as hornwort and water milfoil (for ponds).
• Dispose of non-native plants by burning them or composting them within the grounds of your own property.
• Never dump garden cuttings into the countryside or woodland, and never dispose of aquatic plants in rivers, ponds or down the drain.

Contact Details

Mike Eastwood, Principal Landscape Architect

Tel: 0121 704 6391
Email: meastwood@solihull.gov.uk