‘Danger’ plants that spread as quickly as Japanese knotweed and can affect the value of your home

Green-fingered Brits are being warned of nine plants that can spread as quickly as Japanese Knotweed and cause havoc in the garden. Gardening expert Graham Rice says there are a number of non-native plants that can spread quickly if ignored – and cause havoc.

Several are as easy to get rid of as pulling it out by hand, while others need a little more work to ensure they don’t come back.

Several can knock thousands off of people’s house prices if allowed to run amok, with many having the potential to grow dozens of feet out of control. Graham Rice told the Sun some of those which people should look out for:

Water ferns

Those with garden ponds should watch out for water ferns which is spread by spores carried by the wind.

They can extend up to 12 inches deep.

Hollyberry cotoneaster

Once known as a desirable plant to have in one’s garden, it is a small deciduous shrub belonging to the Rosaceae family.

However its berries are attracted by birds which spread it into the wild, where it can be an invasive species.

Tree of heaven

This is designated as a noxious weed and secretes toxins which can kill off the other plant life around it.

The plant has the potential to grow nearly 50ft within 25 years, eventually reaching 89ft.

New Zealand pygmy weed

The plants arrived in the UK from New Zealand in the 1950s and grows all year round.

Giant Hogweed

Giant Hogweed can cause rashes and blisters, with its sap making people’s skin sensitive to UV light.

Himalayan balsam

It is described a policeman’s helmet and brought to our shores in 1839 – the same as dreaded Japanese knotweed.

It is on the EU’s list of Invasive Alien Species of Union Concern.

Rhododendron

Growing usually in woodland, it is believed to cover 3% of Britain’s forests.

They often smother wild flowers and smaller plants.

Virginia Creeper

A climbing plant native to northern America, the virginia creeper can grow to 65ft.

Spanish bluebell

It grows vigorously and stops smaller plants from reaching light and space.

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