Invasive Species Week 2024

Starting off Invasive Species Week 2024 with some of our most common invasive species found in Ireland, Giant Rhubarb, Japanese Knotweed, Rhododendron and Himalayan Balsam. All of these are invasive non-native species (INNS) which means they negatively impact our environment, wildlife, economy, or health.

Many of these invasive plants have been introduced as ornamental plants to add beauty to gardens but have spread rapidly in their new environment, outcompeting native species. Not all non-native species are invasive. An invasive species is determined by undergoing detailed risk assessments. Lists of those considered Invasive Non Native species can be found on https://invasives.ie/