Experts have warned that recent weather has allowed an invasive species of plant to thrive.

Japanese knotweed is native to East Asia and was introduced to the UK in the 1800s where it has since spread out of control. 

It can grow up to four inches a day and forms dense thickets which can kill native plant species, making it particularly harmful to the flora of the region.

Now, according to experts, warm, wetter weather is providing a rich environment for Japanese knotweed to thrive across the North East.

The Northern Echo: Japanese KnotweedJapanese Knotweed (Image: Property Care Association)

What have experts said? 

Reports have been coming into the Property Care Association of the early growth of the plants’ distinctive red stems in February, well ahead of its usual growing season - suggesting it is thriving across the region.

According to Daniel Docking, the PCA’s Invasive Weed Control Group technical manager, the current climate conditions could have a detrimental impact on native plant species.

He said: “We can still expect late-season frosts and dry weather in March and April, but Japanese knotweed has already started to establish itself and the resilience of the plant will mean it is in a strong position to thrive.

“At the moment many plants are doing well due to the weather conditions, including native species.

“But we’d still suspect the temperature to drop, meaning many plants will slow down their growth pattern.

“However, Japanese knotweed will be largely unaffected by these changes and that means it can start to dominate environments, with more opportunities to spread.”

Recommended reading: 

Get more content including the stories that matter to your community from The Northern Echo for just £2 for 2 months for a limited time only here.

Mr Docking added: “As Japanese knotweed becomes more visible, we encourage anyone with concerns about the plant to seek expert help.

“Our ICWG members have a range of options to treat infestations, so it’s essential to engage competent Certificated Surveyors in Japanese knotweed (CSJK) who will have the specialist skills and knowledge to identify Japanese knotweed or any other invasive plants that may be present.”

What is Japanese Knotweed?

The plant is identified by "distinctive" red stems and bamboo-like appearance. It can grow up to 8ft tall and its roots can reach as wide as 28ft.

Durham Wildlife Trusts has said that Japanese Knotweed: "Japanese knotweed was introduced to the UK from Japan in the 19th century as a garden plant, but has since become established in the wild, rampaging across roadside verges, riverbanks and waste ground. It is a fast-growing, invasive weed, which prevents other native species from growing, and is often used to highlight the issues of introducing alien species. Many organisations, including Wildlife Trusts, are committed to the removal of this invasive plant to allow our native wildlife to thrive."