Invasive Plants

Invasive Plants in the District of Kent

Invasive plants are non-native plants that spread quickly through new areas, crowding out native plants and causing damage. Invasive plants cause billions of dollars in damages worldwide every year. They can reduce land for crop growth and reduce overall species diversity. They can also damage property and reduce property values. Under the BC Weed Control Act every landowner must control plants from the BC Noxious Weeds list on their land. Here are a few of the invasive plants found in the District of Kent, and some tips for keeping your property natural.

Knotweed (Reynoutria spp.)

Knotweed species are fast-growing invasive plants that look similar to bamboo, but with larger leaves. Knotweed can damage pipes and driveways. Cutting or mowing them is not recommended, as they can grow back from tiny fragments. Herbicide is the best available treatment. See our Knotweed Fact Sheet on Identification and Control for more information.

Giant Hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum)

Giant Hogweed is a very large invasive plant with toxic sap, which can cause burns when handled. For this reason, treatment of Giant Hogweed is best left to professionals. It has large white clusters of flowers, jagged leaves, and splotchy purple stems. It also has a native lookalike, Cow-parsnip, which is very common and non-toxic. See our Giant Hogweed Fact Sheet on Identification and Control for more information.

Common Bugloss (Anchusa officinalis)

Common Bugloss is a new invader to the District of Kent, and very rare. It has small blue flowers that unfurl from a curled seed head. See our Common Bugloss Fact Sheet on Identification and Control for more information.

Himalayan Balsam (Impatiens glandulifera)

Himalayan Balsam, sometimes called Policeman’s Helmet, is an invasive plant that is found along waterways. It can be recognized by its exotic pink and purple flowers, shaped like a helmet. It can outcompete native plants and cause soil erosion. See our Himalayan Balsam Fact Sheet on Identification and Control for more information.