Non native species
Since Victorian times, many foreign species of plants have been introduced to the UK from around the world. Most of these were for ornamental purposes. Some of these spread from private gardens into the wild. Unfortunately, a handful has become problematic, causing the loss of native, natural habitats. These species include:
- Japanese Knotweed
- Himalayan Balsam
- Giant Hogweed
Japanese knotweed and giant hogweed have become significant problems in the UK. To try and control the spread of these species it is now an offence to plant them or otherwise cause them to grow in the wild.