How to Identify Japanese Knotweed

Japanese Knotweed is easily identified by its large green oval-shaped leaves and bamboo type stem.

See Japanese knotweed growing over the months, please click here

Spring

During March to April the plant sends up new shoots; red-purple in colour with rolled back leaves. 

     

Summer

The plant is a perennial with distinctive branching, hollow, bamboo-like stems covered in purple speckles, often reaching 2-3 metres in height.

The leaves of the mature plant are up to 120mm in length with a flattened base and pointed tip and are arranged on arching stems in a zig-zag pattern.

Late Summer

The plant flowers late in the season, August - October with small creamy white flowers. Although seeds are produced they rarely survive. 

Winter

During Winter the leaves die back to reveal orange/ brown coloured stems which may stay erect for several years. Stem and leaf material decomposes slowly leaving a deep layer of plant litter.





E: jk@sltd.co.uk
T: 0161 723 2000