With a scientific term of Fallopia japonica, the invasive Japanese Knotweed is a nonwoody plant that is native to eastern Asia, particularly in Japan, China, and Korea. It has empty stems with distinct nodules, making it appear like a bamboo, although the two plants are not closely related.
Even if the most frequently used scientific name of the plant nowadays is Fallopia japonica, it is likewise called in other scientific terms: Polygonum cuspidatum and Reynoutria japonica. The latter is its oldest name, which was given in 1777 by a Dutch botanist. Furthermore, its other English names include the following donkey rhubarb, elephant ears, fleeceflower, Himalayan fleece vine, Hancock’s curse, and pea shooters.
There are several uses for Japanese Knotweed. Beekeepers value the plant as it is an essential supplier of nectar for honeybees during a certain time of the year when there is little blossoming. It creates monofloral honey, which is likewise known as bamboo honey. Moreover, the plant’s young stems are safe to eat, which taste similar to mild rhubarb. It is a great provider of vitamin A, vitamin C, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, and zinc.
Another known application of the plant is that it is an origin of resveratol, the same substance found in the skin of grapes and red wine. The substance helps reduce bad cholesterol, thus cutting down the risk of heart attacks. One more helpful substance taken from this plant is emodin, which helps regulate bowel motility. Moreover, the plant is in particular useful because of its capacity to survive at any time of the year and in severe situation.
However, as much as Japanese Knotweed has a lot of uses, it is considered as horrible plant particularly in Europe and in North America. During the 19th century, the plant was brought to the United States and Europe, and it was used to give food to animals, as an ornamental plant, and to stop soil erosion. The plant has been found to be a problem, though.
It is considered as one of the world’s one hundred most horrible invasive species. It is regarded as a grave threat to builders, land developers, and gardeners. Moreover, the dangers it may cause consist of mutilation to roads, pavements, drains, walls, and even buildings. It may likewise occupy river banks, thus preventing passage to rivers. One more Japanese Knotweed problem is that it grows quickly and easily. It can spread from small parts of root cuttings, and it can grow up to three to four inches a day. As a result of the harm that this species of plant can bring, the UK for instance has come up with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. The Act bans its spread in the wild.
The Japanese Knotweed, indeed, has two qualities. It is an asset as well as a problem at the same time. And, it cannot be immediately ignored as a useful or a harmful weed all together.
