What is Japanese Knotweed?

Japanese knotweed, or Fallopia japonica, is an invasive species that can rapidly spread and take over areas of land. It has been banned in several countries as it is extremely difficult to deal with and it grows so quickly that it can be difficult to eradicate. Knotweed can grow up to 3 feet per day and completely covers the ground within a year. It grows much quicker than native plants, which means it can crowd them out and lead to the death of entire ecosystems.


Knotweed is a plant that was imported from Japan and has shown up in the UK and other countries. It’s an invasive species and will grow and grow until it takes over a whole field or area. The problem is that knotweed can be very difficult to get rid of. If you cut it down, the roots will break off into tiny pieces, multiply and grow into another plant. This is why it’s important to consult a professional who knows how to kill knotweed for good.

How does Japanese Knotweed Spread?

Each Japanese knotweed plant is supported by an underground system comprised of stems, crowns and rhizomes. Underground, these parts send shoots to the surface in order to fuel further growth. An entire plant can grow from a fragment of rhizome fragments as small as 10mm, so if any soil beneath a Japanese knotweed patch is moved or dumped, a new crop can be expected to grow on the new site.

It can grow up to 2 inches a day, smothering everything it encounters. The roots of this plant invade and distort drainpipes and sewers, which can lead to flooding and damage to property. When it grows on private property, the owner must pay for its removal and disposal at their own expense. This plant has become so problematic that there are many companies offering Japanese knotweed removal services.