Yes. Japanese knotweed is a dangerous plant species.
When it comes to environmental impact knotweed is extremely harmful. Its rapid growth can quickly dominate surrounding species causing loss of biodiversity. When left to grow and not controlled knotweed can cause damage to property foundations and structures, pavements and other hard structures. It can even grow through cracks and establish itself within the buildings themselves.
However, knotweed is not a toxic species, meaning it does not contain poisonous properties that would cause harm, sickness or death to animals or humans if touched or consumed – in fact knotweed stems are edible, they are similar to rhubarb.
So, in conclusion Japanese knotweed is a threat to biodiversity and to physical structures, it can devalue property and deplete amenity access. For these reasons Japanese knotweed is dangerous and NOT TO BE IGNORED!
Want to know more about this invasive plant – read ‘All about Japanese knotweed’.
Get in touch if you’d like to have a survey or treatment plan quote.