Ireland: Kerry - Dublin - Cork - Waterford - Roscommon - Galway - Belfast
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Regulated
Invasive Alien Plant Species Information
What Are Invasive Alien Plant Species (IAPS)?
Invasive Alien Plant Species (IAPS) are non-native plants introduced into the wild, either accidentally or deliberately, where they do not naturally occur. These species can have harmful effects on the environment and biodiversity, often outcompeting native species for essential resources.
Invasive plants can also significantly impact conservation efforts, economic activities, and, in some cases, pose direct or indirect risks to human safety. Addressing the damage caused by invasive species is a major challenge for public authorities, developers, and private landowners. It is often a costly and labour-intensive process requiring dedicated management.
Is Having an Invasive Alien Plant Species on My Property Illegal?
Having invasive species listed under Annex 2 of the S.I. No. 477/2011 - European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 on your property is not inherently illegal. However, allowing these recognised invasive species to spread beyond your property can have serious consequences.
If an invasive species spreads to a neighbour’s property or public land, you may be held liable for damages, legal fees, and remediation costs. Proactively managing invasive species is essential to prevent these issues and to comply with regulations.
American Skunk-Cabbage (Lysichiton americanus) is a large wetland plant native to the Pacific Northwest of North America, known for its bright yellow flowers and skunk-like odour.
In Ireland, it is considered an invasive species that poses a threat to wetland ecosystems by forming dense colonies that outcompete native vegetation.
The plant spreads through seed dispersal and rhizome expansion, making management challenging.
Control strategies include mechanical removal, herbicide application, and preventative measures to limit its spread. If left unmanaged,
American Skunk-Cabbage can significantly impact biodiversity and wetland habitat dynamics.
Bohemian Knotweed (Fallopia × bohemica) is a highly invasive perennial hybrid between Japanese and Giant Knotweed, known for its rapid growth and ability to spread through rhizome and stem fragments.
In Ireland, it poses a significant threat to biodiversity and infrastructure, particularly in riparian areas and disturbed sites.
Management strategies include mechanical and chemical control methods, with an emphasis on long-term treatment to exhaust the plant's regenerative capacity.
Preventing the spread of plant fragments and public awareness are crucial for controlling its impact on local ecosystems.
Brazilian Giant-Rhubarb (Gunnera manicata) is a dramatic, large-leaved perennial native to Brazil, known for its ornamental use in gardens and parks.
In Ireland, it is considered potentially invasive, particularly in wetland and riparian areas where it can outcompete native vegetation.
The plant spreads through seed and rhizome fragments, making management challenging.
Control strategies include mechanical removal, herbicide application, and preventing planting near natural water bodies.
If left unchecked, Brazilian Giant-Rhubarb can significantly impact local ecosystems, altering habitat structure and reducing biodiversity.
Broad-Leaved Rush (Juncus planifolius) is a perennial herb native to Australia, New Zealand, and South America, known for its grass-like appearance and ability to spread in wetland habitats.
In Ireland, it is considered an invasive species, particularly in marshes, wet meadows, and riverbanks, where it can outcompete native species and alter habitat structures.
The plant spreads through seeds and rhizomes, making management challenging.
Control strategies include mechanical removal, herbicide application, and early monitoring to prevent its spread.
If left unmanaged, Broad-Leaved Rush can significantly impact wetland biodiversity and hydrology.
Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii) is a deciduous shrub native to China and Japan, widely cultivated for its showy flowers that attract butterflies and other pollinators.
In Ireland, it is considered an invasive species, particularly in disturbed and riparian habitats, where it can outcompete native vegetation.
The plant spreads primarily through wind-dispersed seeds, making management challenging.
Control measures include mechanical removal, herbicide application, and preventing planting near natural habitats.
While attractive to pollinators, Butterfly Bush's invasiveness can negatively impact local ecosystems and biodiversity.
Cape Pondweed (Aponogeton distachyos) is an aquatic perennial native to South Africa, known for its attractive, floating flowers and use in ornamental ponds.
In Ireland, it is a naturalised species with the potential to become invasive in slow-moving water bodies and ponds.
The plant reproduces through seeds and vegetative propagation, making management necessary to prevent its spread.
Control methods include mechanical removal, water level management, and careful disposal to avoid unintentional spread.
While Cape Pondweed enhances the beauty of water gardens, it poses a risk to native aquatic ecosystems if it escapes cultivation.
Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to southeastern Europe and Asia Minor, commonly used as a hedge or screening plant.
In Ireland, it is considered invasive in some areas, particularly in woodlands and forest edges, where it can form dense stands that outcompete native vegetation.
The plant spreads through bird-dispersed seeds and vegetative growth, making management challenging.
Control methods include mechanical removal, herbicide application, and careful monitoring to prevent its spread.
If left unmanaged, Cherry Laurel can significantly impact biodiversity and alter woodland habitat structure.
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Cordgrasses (Spartina spp.) are salt-tolerant perennial grasses that thrive in coastal and estuarine environments.
While some species are used for coastal erosion control and habitat restoration, others, such as Spartina anglica, are considered invasive in Ireland, where they alter salt marshes and mudflat ecosystems.
The plant spreads through seed dispersal and rhizomes, making management challenging.
Control strategies include mechanical removal, herbicide application, smothering, and preventing the movement of contaminated sediments.
If left unmanaged, cordgrasses can significantly impact coastal biodiversity and ecosystem dynamics.
Curly Waterweed (Lagarosiphon major) is a submerged aquatic plant native to southern Africa, known for its rapid growth and invasive potential in non-native regions.
In Ireland, it is considered a high-risk invasive species, particularly in lakes, rivers, and canals, where it can form dense mats that outcompete native vegetation and disrupt aquatic ecosystems.
The plant spreads primarily through fragmentation, making management challenging.
Control strategies include mechanical removal, herbicide use, and preventative measures to limit the spread.
If left unmanaged, Curly Waterweed can significantly impact biodiversity, water flow, and the recreational use of water bodies.
Dwarf Eel-Grass (Zostera japonica) is a small seagrass native to the western Pacific, known for its ability to form dense underwater meadows in intertidal and shallow subtidal zones.
While not currently considered invasive in Ireland, it poses a potential risk to coastal habitats if introduced.
The plant spreads through seeds and rhizome growth, making management challenging.
Control measures include mechanical removal and monitoring to prevent accidental spread.
In regions where it becomes invasive, Dwarf Eel-Grass can outcompete native species, alter sediment dynamics, and impact local marine ecosystems.
Eel-Grass (Vallisneria spiralis) is a submerged aquatic plant native to Europe, Asia, and northern Africa, known for its long, ribbon-like leaves and ability to form dense underwater meadows.
It is popular in aquariums and can spread rapidly in suitable freshwater habitats, primarily through runners.
In Ireland, it is mainly used in water gardens, with some potential for escape into natural water bodies.
Management strategies include mechanical removal, herbicide application, and preventative measures to avoid accidental introduction.
While Eel-Grass provides valuable habitat for aquatic life, it can become problematic if it forms dense stands that outcompete native plants and disrupt water flow.
Fanwort (Cabomba caroliniana) is an aquatic plant native to the southeastern United States, known for its rapid growth and invasive potential in non-native regions.
In Ireland, it poses a high risk to aquatic ecosystems, especially in lakes and slow-moving rivers, where it can outcompete native plants and disrupt water flow.
The plant spreads primarily through fragmentation, making management challenging.
Control measures include mechanical removal, herbicide use, and preventative actions to limit the spread.
If left unmanaged, Fanwort can significantly impact biodiversity, water quality, and recreational activities in freshwater environments.
Floating Pennywort (Hydrocotyle ranunculoides) is a fast-growing aquatic plant native to the Americas, known for its rapid spread and ability to form dense mats on water bodies.
In Ireland, it is a high-risk invasive species that threatens native biodiversity, water quality, and recreational use of lakes, rivers, and canals.
The plant spreads primarily through vegetative propagation, making management challenging.
Control strategies include mechanical removal, herbicide application, and preventative measures to limit the spread.
If left unmanaged, Floating Pennywort can significantly impact aquatic ecosystems and waterway management.
Fringed Water-Lily (Nymphoides peltata) is an aquatic plant native to Europe and Asia, known for its bright yellow, fringed flowers and floating leaves.
In Ireland, it poses a risk of becoming invasive, particularly in still or slow-moving water bodies, where it can outcompete native species and disrupt aquatic ecosystems.
The plant spreads through both seeds and vegetative propagation, making management challenging.
Control measures include mechanical removal, herbicide application, and preventative actions to limit the spread.
If left unmanaged, Fringed Water-Lily can significantly impact water quality, biodiversity, and waterway management.
Giant Hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) is an invasive herbaceous plant known for its large size, umbrella-shaped flower clusters, and toxic sap.
In Ireland, it is considered a serious invasive species, particularly along riverbanks and in disturbed habitats.
The plant spreads primarily through seed dispersal, making control challenging.
Management strategies include mechanical and chemical control, with strict safety measures to avoid exposure to the plant's sap.
If left unmanaged, Giant Hogweed can significantly impact biodiversity, human health, and soil stability in affected areas.
Giant Knotweed (Fallopia sachalinensis) is an invasive herbaceous plant native to Sakhalin Island, northern Japan, and eastern Russia.
In Ireland, it is considered a high-risk invasive species, particularly along riverbanks and in disturbed areas.
The plant spreads primarily through rhizome fragments and can outcompete native vegetation, posing risks to biodiversity and infrastructure.
Control strategies include mechanical removal, herbicide treatments, and preventing the spread of contaminated soil.
If left unmanaged, Giant Knotweed can significantly impact local ecosystems, waterway stability, and infrastructure.
Giant Salvinia (Salvinia molesta) is an aquatic fern native to Brazil, known for its rapid growth and potential to form dense mats on the surface of water bodies.
While not yet widespread in Ireland, it is considered a high-risk invasive species due to its ability to outcompete native aquatic plants, reduce water quality, and block waterways.
The plant spreads entirely through vegetative propagation, making management difficult.
Control measures include mechanical removal, herbicide application, and biological control using Salvinia weevils.
Strict preventive measures are necessary to avoid introduction and establishment.
Giant-Rhubarb (Gunnera tinctoria) is a large perennial plant native to Chile and Argentina, known for its massive leaves and tall flower spikes.
In Ireland, it is considered an invasive species that can rapidly spread in wetland and riparian habitats, outcompeting native vegetation and altering habitat structures.
The plant spreads through both seed and rhizome fragments, making management challenging.
Control strategies include mechanical removal, herbicide application, and preventative measures to limit its spread.
If left unmanaged, Giant-Rhubarb can significantly impact local biodiversity and increase the risk of soil erosion.
Himalayan Balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) is an invasive annual plant native to the Himalayan region, known for its tall stature, attractive flowers, and explosive seed dispersal.
In Ireland, it poses significant risks to native biodiversity, especially along waterways and in damp woodlands, where it forms dense stands that outcompete native vegetation and increase the risk of soil erosion.
The plant primarily spreads through seed dispersal, making management challenging.
Control strategies include mechanical removal, herbicide application, and biological control methods.
Preventative measures are necessary to limit further spread and protect vulnerable habitats.
Himalayan Knotweed (Persicaria wallichii) is an invasive herbaceous plant native to the Himalayan region.
In Ireland, it poses ecological risks in riparian and disturbed habitats, where it can form dense stands that outcompete native vegetation and alter habitat structures.
The plant spreads primarily through rhizome fragments, making management challenging.
Control strategies include mechanical removal, herbicide treatments, and preventing the spread of contaminated soil.
If left unmanaged, Himalayan Knotweed can significantly impact local biodiversity and increase the risk of soil erosion.
Hottentot-Fig (Carpobrotus edulis) is a succulent, perennial plant native to South Africa, known for its mat-forming growth and bright flowers.
In Ireland, it is considered an invasive species, especially in coastal areas, where it can outcompete native vegetation and alter ecosystem dynamics.
The plant spreads through both seeds and vegetative fragments, making control challenging.
Management strategies include mechanical removal, herbicide application, and preventing the planting or disposal of the plant in natural areas.
If left unmanaged, Hottentot-Fig can significantly impact coastal biodiversity and habitat structure.
Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) is an invasive perennial plant native to East Asia, known for its rapid growth and ability to form dense stands.
In Ireland, it is considered a high-risk invasive species due to its potential to outcompete native vegetation, damage infrastructure, and spread rapidly through rhizome fragments.
Control strategies include mechanical removal, herbicide treatments, and preventing the spread of contaminated soil.
If left unmanaged, Japanese Knotweed can significantly impact local ecosystems, riverbank stability, and built structures.
Large-Flowered Waterweed (Egeria densa) is a submerged aquatic plant native to South America, known for its rapid growth and potential to form dense underwater mats in non-native regions.
In Ireland, it is considered a high-risk invasive species that poses threats to aquatic ecosystems, recreational activities, and water quality in lakes, rivers, and canals.
The plant spreads through fragmentation, making management challenging.
Control measures include mechanical removal, herbicide use, and preventative steps to limit spread.
If left unmanaged, Large-Flowered Waterweed can significantly impact local biodiversity and aquatic habitat dynamics.
Lesser Knotweed (Persicaria campanulata) is a perennial plant native to Asia, known for its arching stems, bell-shaped flowers, and ability to spread rapidly.
In Ireland, it is considered an invasive species, particularly in moist habitats such as woodlands and riverbanks.
The plant reproduces through seeds and vegetative propagation, forming dense clumps that can outcompete native vegetation.
Effective management involves mechanical removal, herbicide use, and preventative measures to control its spread.
Mile-a-Minute Weed (Persicaria perfoliata) is a fast-growing annual vine native to East Asia, known for its aggressive growth and ability to form dense mats.
In Ireland, it poses a potential threat to natural ecosystems, particularly in riparian zones and disturbed areas, where it could outcompete native vegetation.
The plant primarily spreads through seed dispersal, making early detection and control essential.
Management strategies include mechanical removal, herbicide application, and biological control using the Mile-a-Minute Weevil.
Preventative measures are necessary to limit its spread and protect vulnerable habitats.
Montbretia (Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora) is a perennial herbaceous plant known for its striking orange-red flowers and arching stems.
In Ireland, it is considered an invasive species that can outcompete native vegetation, particularly in hedgerows, woodland edges, and disturbed areas.
The plant spreads primarily through vegetative propagation via its corm system, making management challenging.
Control measures include mechanical removal, herbicide application, and monitoring to limit its spread.
If left unmanaged, Montbretia can significantly impact local biodiversity and alter the structure of natural habitats.
New Zealand Pigmyweed (Crassula helmsii) is an invasive aquatic plant native to Australia and New Zealand, known for its rapid growth and ability to form dense mats in freshwater habitats.
In Ireland, it is considered a high-risk invasive species that poses threats to aquatic ecosystems, water quality, and recreational activities.
The plant spreads primarily through fragmentation, making management difficult.
Control measures include mechanical removal, herbicide use, and preventative actions to limit spread.
If left unmanaged, New Zealand Pigmyweed can significantly impact local biodiversity and aquatic habitat dynamics.
Parrot's Feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum) is an invasive aquatic plant native to South America, known for its feathery foliage and ability to form dense mats in freshwater habitats.
In Ireland, it is considered a high-risk invasive species, with regulations prohibiting its introduction and spread.
The plant primarily spreads through stem fragmentation, making management challenging.
Control measures include mechanical removal, herbicide application, and preventative actions to limit its spread.
If left unmanaged, Parrot's Feather can significantly impact local biodiversity, water quality, and aquatic habitat dynamics.
Red Alga (Grateloupia doryphora) is a large, invasive marine species native to the northwest Pacific Ocean.
In Ireland, it poses a risk to coastal ecosystems by outcompeting native algae and altering marine habitats.
The plant spreads primarily through spores and vegetative fragments, often facilitated by human activities.
Management strategies include mechanical removal, preventive measures to avoid spreading, and monitoring high-risk areas.
Without control, Grateloupia doryphora can significantly impact biodiversity, aquaculture, and the overall health of marine ecosystems.
Rhododendron (Rhododendron ponticum) is an invasive evergreen shrub native to southern Europe and Asia.
In Ireland, it is a significant invasive species, particularly in woodland and heathland areas, where it forms dense thickets that outcompete native vegetation.
The plant spreads through both seed dispersal and vegetative propagation, making control difficult.
Management strategies include mechanical removal, herbicide treatments, and preventative measures to reduce spread.
If left unmanaged, Rhododendron can significantly impact local biodiversity, forest regeneration, and soil composition.
Salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis) is a deciduous shrub native to the west coast of North America, known for its raspberry-like fruits and bright pink flowers.
In Ireland, it has naturalised in some areas, where it can form dense thickets that outcompete native vegetation, particularly in woodlands and riparian zones.
The plant spreads through both seed dispersal and rhizome expansion, making management challenging.
Control strategies include mechanical removal, herbicide use, and preventative measures to limit its spread.
If left unmanaged, Salmonberry can significantly impact local biodiversity and forest regeneration.
Sea-Buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is a spiny, deciduous shrub native to coastal regions of Europe and Asia, known for its bright orange berries and silvery-green leaves.
In Ireland, it is considered an invasive species, especially in coastal areas and dunes, where it can spread rapidly and outcompete native vegetation.
The plant reproduces through seed dispersal and suckering, making management challenging. Control strategies include mechanical removal, herbicide use, and integrated management approaches.
If left unmanaged, Sea-Buckthorn can significantly impact local biodiversity, soil composition, and coastal dynamics.
Spanish Bluebell (Hyacinthoides hispanica) is a bulbous perennial plant native to the Iberian Peninsula, known for its upright flowering stalks and bell-shaped flowers.
In Ireland, it poses a threat to the native Bluebell through hybridisation and competition.
The plant primarily spreads through bulb multiplication, making control challenging.
Management strategies include mechanical removal of bulbs, preventative measures to avoid planting near sensitive habitats, and monitoring for hybridisation events.
If left unmanaged, Spanish Bluebell can significantly impact the genetic integrity of native Bluebell populations and reduce biodiversity in woodlands.
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Three-Cornered Leek (Allium triquetrum) is a bulbous perennial plant native to the Mediterranean, known for its garlic-like scent, triangular stems, and nodding white flowers.
In Ireland, it is considered an invasive species in some areas, particularly in woodlands and along roadsides, where it can form dense carpets that outcompete native vegetation.
The plant spreads mainly through bulb multiplication, making management challenging.
Control strategies include mechanical removal, herbicide use, and proper disposal of garden waste to prevent its spread.
If left unmanaged, Three-Cornered Leek can significantly impact local biodiversity and habitat dynamics.
Wakame (Undaria pinnatifida) is an invasive brown seaweed native to the northwest Pacific Ocean, known for its rapid growth and distinctive wavy fronds.
In Ireland, it poses a significant threat to native marine ecosystems by outcompeting local seaweed species and altering the structure of marine communities.
The plant primarily spreads through spores and human activities, making management difficult.
Control measures include mechanical removal, preventative cleaning of boats and equipment, and monitoring for early detection.
If left unmanaged, Wakame can significantly impact biodiversity and disrupt local marine habitats.
Water Chestnut (Trapa natans) is an aquatic plant native to Eurasia and Africa, known for its distinctive floating leaves, spiny fruits, and ability to form dense surface mats.
While not currently widespread in Ireland, it is considered a potentially invasive species if introduced.
The plant spreads primarily through its long-lived seeds and can significantly impact biodiversity, water quality, and recreational activities.
Management strategies include mechanical removal, herbicide use, and preventative measures to limit its spread.
If left unmanaged, Water Chestnut can outcompete native aquatic vegetation and alter the structure of freshwater ecosystems.
Water Fern (Azolla filiculoides) is a small, free-floating aquatic fern native to the Americas, known for its rapid growth and ability to form dense mats.
In Ireland, it is considered an invasive species, particularly in calm, nutrient-rich freshwater bodies, where it can outcompete native plants and alter ecosystems.
The plant spreads mainly through vegetative fragmentation, making management challenging.
Control strategies include mechanical removal, biological control using the Azolla Weevil, herbicide application, and preventative measures to limit its spread.
If left unmanaged, Water Fern can significantly impact biodiversity, water quality, and the usability of water bodies.
Water Lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) is a free-floating aquatic plant native to tropical and subtropical regions.
Although not currently established in Ireland, it is considered a potentially invasive species if introduced, due to its rapid growth and ability to form dense mats.
The plant primarily spreads through vegetative propagation, making management challenging.
Control strategies include mechanical removal, herbicide use, biological control with the Water Lettuce Weevil, and preventive measures to limit its spread.
If left unmanaged, Water Lettuce can significantly impact biodiversity, water quality, and the usability of water bodies.
Water-Primrose (Ludwigia spp.) is an invasive aquatic plant native to the Americas, known for its bright yellow flowers and ability to form dense mats in freshwater habitats.
In Ireland, it poses a high risk to lakes, rivers, and wetlands due to its rapid growth and capacity to outcompete native vegetation.
The plant spreads primarily through seed dispersal and vegetative fragmentation, making management difficult.
Control measures include mechanical removal, herbicide application, and preventative actions to limit its spread.
If left unmanaged, Water-Primrose can significantly impact biodiversity, water quality, and the functionality of water bodies.
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Waterweeds (Elodea spp.) are submerged aquatic plants native to North America, known for their rapid growth and ability to form dense mats in freshwater habitats.
In Ireland, they are considered high-risk invasive species that pose threats to aquatic ecosystems, water quality, and recreational activities.
The plants spread primarily through fragmentation, making management difficult.
Control measures include mechanical removal, herbicide use, and preventative actions to limit their spread.
If left unmanaged, Waterweeds can significantly impact local biodiversity and aquatic habitat dynamics.
Wireweed (Sargassum muticum) is an invasive brown seaweed native to the northwest Pacific Ocean, known for its rapid growth and ability to form dense underwater forests.
In Ireland, it poses a significant threat to native marine ecosystems by outcompeting local seaweed species and altering the structure of marine habitats.
The plant primarily spreads through fragmentation and human activities, making management difficult.
Control measures include mechanical removal, monitoring for early detection, and preventative actions to limit its spread.
If left unmanaged, Wireweed can significantly impact biodiversity, disrupt marine ecosystems, and affect coastal activities.
