Expert sounds alarm over FOUR invasive weeds taking root across the UK

"Capable of taking over homes and regrowing from a one-centimetre fragment, an invasion of J apanese knotweed is any gardener's worst nightmare. But experts now warn that the clumping Japanese weed is not the only intrusive plant gardeners need to be worried about. Weed removal specialists from Environment Controls say there are four invasive plants taking root all over the UK. That includes a wave of highly toxic Datura stramonium, otherwise known as the Devil's Trumpet."

"Devil's Trumpet is so toxic to both humans and animals that even touching it can be dangerous. Experts warn that this invasive species should never be handled without the proper protective equipment. Jennifer Holmes from Environment Controls says: 'Most people think of plants such as Hemlock as being a threat to human health, as it's highly toxic if ingested. 'But there are many other plants that can cause allergic reactions or are harmful both to man and the environment.'"

"The Royal Horticultural Society says that you don't necessarily need to remove devil's trumpet from your garden, but warns that it is highly poisonous. All parts of the plant are poisonous, and it must never be handled without protective equipment since it can cause skin irritation on contact. Consuming the plant can lead to severe health issues, including confusion accompanied by vivid auditory and visual hallucinations."

Japanese knotweed can regrow from a one-centimetre fragment and can take over homes. Four invasive plant species are establishing across the UK, including Datura stramonium (Devil's Trumpet). Devil's Trumpet reaches maturity with ragged, pointy leaves and spiky seed capsules and produces large quantities of long-dormant seeds that enable rapid spread and competition with native plants for moisture, space, and nutrients. All parts of Devil's Trumpet are highly poisonous and can cause skin irritation on contact; ingestion can cause confusion with vivid auditory and visual hallucinations. Removal and handling require proper protective equipment.

Read at Mail Online