Japanese Knotweed

Japanese Knotweed is a large perennial plant, native to eastern Asia. It has been classified as an invasive species in several countries.

If left untreated, Japanese knotweed can exploit weaknesses in buildings and damage underground constructions such as drainage and sewage systems, causing land owners unnecessary expense.

How to identify

Japanese knotweed begins to grow in early spring and can grow in any type of soil, no matter how poor.

• It can grow as much as 20 centimetres per day
• It spreads through rhizome (underground root-like stem) fragments and cut stems
• produces clusters of cream flowers towards the end of July
• dies back between September and November, leaving brown stems

Further guidance

• How to destroy and dispose of Japanese knotweed from gov.uk

Do not put Japanese knotweed in your bins

You must not put Japanese knotweed in with your garden waste or general waste. The government has guidance on treating and disposing of invasive plants.

Who is responsible for removing Japanese knotweed?

The duty for dealing with Japanese knotweed lies with the land owner of the affected land. 

Private Land

This is a private matter as land owners are responsible for dealing with Japanese knotweed growing on their land.

Public Land

It is our responsibility to remove Japanese knotweed that is growing on council land.  If the knotweed is:

• Highways - (pavements and verges) contact 020 8937 5050 or use our online contact form
• Parks - contact 020 8937 5619 or email brent.parks.services@brent.gov.uk
  

Council property

It is the responsibility of Brent Housing Partnership (BHP). Where BHP estates are managed on behalf of Brent Council, BHP are responsible. Japanese Knotweed should be reported to our Customer Response Team, during working hours only, on 020 8937 2579.