Now that we are in the summer months, our flora is blooming. It is easy to see just why Hawthorn is also known as Whitethorn, Gorse brings a brilliant yellow as does Yellow Flag Iris, whilst Ragged Robin, Red Valerian, and Foxglove provide beautiful shades of pink. It is also easy to see our non-native invasive species during this time of year.
Rhododendron looks particularly impressive at this time of year, the troublesome variation, Rhododendron ponticum displays large, pretty flowers which are a seedbank source. Japanese Knotweed grows tall and is conspicuous, whilst Old Mans Beard (or Traveller's Joy) is climbing like there is no tomorrow! It is important for local communities to be mindful of these high impact non-native invasive species as in accordance with Regulation 49 'a person shall be guilty of an offence if they: plant; disperse; allow or cause to disperse; spread or cause to grow the plant in the Republic of Ireland'. Invasive species spread via a range of methods. Rhododendron, Himalayan Balsam and Giant Rhubarb spread by seed, whilst Japanese Knotweed can spread by fragmentation. Generally speaking, non-native invasive species outcompete our native species as they are often aggressive colonisers that are shade tolerant and grow very quickly. You can help by familiarising yourself with the non-native invasive species in your area, and when you are comfortable identifying the species you can report it to the National Biodiversity Data Centre at www.biodiversityireland.ie. The photo attached to this item is Yellow Archangel, a plant commonly sold at garden centres throughout Kerry. This species is invasive, whilst it does not grow tall, it covers the ground area and shades out our native flora.
