Species › Plants › Japanese Knotweed

Japanese Knotweed

Reynoutria japonica

CommonPlant
Illustration of Japanese Knotweed (Reynoutria japonica)

Japanese Knotweed is a robust perennial with bamboo-like stems and heart-shaped leaves. It is highly invasive and can grow through concrete, causing damage to infrastructure. It spreads rapidly, forming dense thickets that outcompete native plants.

Habitat
Commonly found in disturbed areas, roadsides, and riverbanks.
Diet
Its flowers attract bees and other pollinators.
How common
Common

Best time to see a Japanese Knotweed

The best time to see a Japanese Knotweed is April–August, when about 68% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 35,820 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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