Japanese knotweed is a resilient perennial plant that has rapidly spread throughout the UK, infiltrating housing foundations and gardens. Known for its swift growth—sometimes up to 10cm per day—this invasive weed is notoriously difficult to control and even harder to eradicate from your property, making effective Japanese knotweed removal essential.
Whilst the plant is notorious throughout the country, there are still some unknown characteristics of Japanese knotweed.
Is it poisonous?
Luckily, despite the threat it poses to property, Japanese knotweed is not a poisonous plant. Some people can confuse Japanese knotweed with giant hogweed, which can cause severe burns when exposed to UV rays. A few cases of mild skin irritation have been reported when coming into contact with Japanese knotweed, but the plant poses no real threat to humans.
In fact, Japanese knotweed is edible. The plant can become sweet or savoury, depending on how it’s prepared, and can be eaten both raw and cooked. Harvesting Japanese knotweed for consumption doesn’t pose any risks to the environment, as there is no chance of the plant being over-harvested.
Is Japanese Knotweed Safe to Touch?
Generally Safe to Touch: Japanese knotweed is safe to handle with bare skin, and most people experience no adverse reactions when coming into contact with it.
Low Public Health Risk: Unlike giant hogweed—which is the only dangerous invasive species among those listed in the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981—Japanese knotweed does not pose significant public health or safety risks.
Precautionary Measures Advised: Even though it’s not poisonous, wearing gloves, long-sleeved clothing, and trousers is recommended to minimise direct contact with the plant.
Potential for Skin Irritation: While the plant itself is not harmful, scratches from its stems or leaves could potentially irritate sensitive skin, especially in individuals with pre-existing skin conditions.
What other threats does it pose?
Japanese knotweed has been known to grow through concrete and can weave itself into the structural foundations of your property. The plant can damage the foundation by targeting weak spots and growing through them. Some homeowners who have found Japanese knotweed on their property have been refused mortgages, making it difficult for them to sell their homes and move elsewhere.
Not only this, but Japanese knotweed can also threaten native vegetation. As the plant grows rapidly and up to 7ft in height, it blocks out and shades other species of fauna, making it difficult for them to thrive. Japanese knotweed also releases a chemical substance that impedes the growth of nearby plants.
How to get rid of Japanese knotweed
Chemical Control: We employ industry-approved herbicides as part of our integrated approach, targeting the knotweed’s growth cycle to weaken and eliminate the plant.
Thorough Excavation: Our experienced team carefully excavates the plants along with their extensive root systems to minimise the chance of regrowth.
On-Site Disposal and Encapsulation: We ensure that removed knotweed is securely managed on-site through burial or encapsulation with specialised membranes, preventing any further spread.
Expert Japanese Knotweed Removal: CYB Environmental specialises in the safe removal and eradication of Japanese knotweed from UK homes and gardens, ensuring effective and compliant management of this invasive species.
Nutritional and Medicinal Benefits
Japanese knotweed also contains Vitamin C and Vitamin A, and has been used for centuries as herbal medicine to cure many ailments. Whilst Japanese knotweed isn’t safe for your home, it is completely safe to touch and consume for both humans and animals.
We understand how worrying it can be to find this plant on your property, which is why we offer a cost-effective and efficient service to clients needing Japanese knotweed removal across the UK. You can get in touch with CYB Environmental for our Japanese knotweed removal service, or for more information on the plant.
If you are concerned about a plant and think it may be Japanese Knotweed, you can send us a photo and receive a free quick identification from one of our specialists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is Japanese knotweed poisonous?
A: No, Japanese knotweed is not poisonous. While it may cause mild skin irritation in some cases, it does not pose a serious threat to human health.
Q2: Can Japanese knotweed be eaten?
A: Yes, it is edible. Japanese knotweed can be consumed raw or cooked and is a good source of Vitamin C and Vitamin A.
Q3: How does Japanese knotweed damage property?
A: The plant can grow through concrete and infiltrate building foundations, causing structural damage and potentially affecting property values and mortgage approvals.
Q4: What methods are used to remove Japanese knotweed?
A: Effective removal methods include chemical control, excavation of the plant and its roots, and on-site burial or encapsulation with membranes. Due to its invasive nature, professional removal is strongly recommended.
Q5: How can I get help with Japanese knotweed removal?
A: Contact CYB Environmental for expert removal services and a free identification consultation. Simply send us a photo of the suspected plant to get started.
