5 Interesting Facts about Japanese Knotweed

Five interesting facts about Japanese Knotweed

Although Japanese Knotweed is highly invasive, growing quickly and dominating any natural environment that it’s found in, it also has a number of features that are rarely spoken about. Check out 5 interesting facts about Japanese knotweed below!

5 interesting facts about japanese knotweed:

1. Japanese Knotweed is Edible.

The hollow green stems of Japanese Knotweed taste very similar to rhubarb and can be eaten either raw or cooked. It has been used to make a variety of different food, including purees, soups, wine and even Japanese knotweed pie!

2. Japanese Knotweed originates from Eastern Asia.

As suggested by the name, Japanese knotweed originates from Eastern Asia – specifically Japan, Taiwan and China. It was introduced to the United Kingdom in 1825 as an ornamental plant which was appreciated for its attractive white flowers. It was only following this introduction to the United Kingdom that it was discovered to be particularly invasive and fast growing, being listed under the Wildlife and Countryside Act in 1981 as an invasive species.

3. Japanese Knotweed is used in medicine.

Japanese Knotweed is also frequently used in medicine and is considered a good source of resveratrol and anti-inflammatory nutrients, making it ideal for treating circulatory and heart related health issues.

4. Japanese Knotweed looks dead in winter.

During the colder months, the canes of the Japanese knotweed turn brown, and the leaves fall off. This leaves the plant looking as though it is dead, with the bare canes standing where a once healthy-looking plant grew.

However, don’t be fooled! Japanese knotweed merely goes dormant over winter, dying back to ground level. The rhizomes in the ground remain alive and then the plant starts to shoot again in the Spring.

5. Japanese Knotweed also has lots of other names.

Japanese Knotweed’s scientific name is Reynoutria japonica but it also has a range of different common names, depending upon the location. These common names can include Billy weed, Monkey Fungus, Elephant Ears, Donkey Rhubarb and Mexican Bamboo.

Contact Us:

Despite its fascinating features, Japanese knotweed should always be taken seriously if found on your

property as handling it in the incorrect way can encourage further growth. At Japanese Knotweed Expert

Ltd, we provide a professional identification, treatment and removal service for Japanese knotweed and

other invasive weeds. We can provide you with the advice and documentation needed to remove any

Japanese knotweed from your property, ensuring that no further growth is stimulated and providing a

10 year insurance backed guarantee for your peace of mind.

For more information, get in touch by calling us on 01782 479 444 or by emailing us at

[email protected].

need more advice about Japanese Knotweed?

Report provided within 48 hours

Five interesting facts about Japanese Knotweed

5 interesting facts about japanese knotweed:

Contact Us:

need more advice about Japanese Knotweed?

What Your Legal Rights Are

Identifying Japanese knotweed

Residential Removal Options

What to do if Your Neighbour Has Japanese Knotweed?

Frequently Asked Questions

Articles

Book your site survey today