With a scientific term of Fallopia japonica, the invasive Japanese Knotweed is a herbaceous plant that is native to eastern Asia, specifically in Japan, China, and Korea. It has empty stems with distinct nodes, making it look like a bamboo, even if the two plants are not directly associated.

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 assigned in 1777 by a Dutch botanist. Furthermore, its other English names include the following elephant ears, donkey rhubarb, fleeceflower, Himalayan fleece vine, Hancock’s curse, and pea shooters.

There are different applications for Japanese Knotweed. Beekeepers value the plant as it is a significant source of nectar for honeybees during a certain time of the year when there is little flowering. It produces monofloral honey, which is likewise called as bamboo honey. Also, the plant’s young stems are edible, which taste similar to mild rhubarb. It is a great source of vitamin C, vitamin A, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc.

Another known application of the plant is that it is an origin of resveratol, the same substance found in the red wine and skin of grapes. The substance helps lower bad cholesterol, hence lowering the possibility of heart attacks. Another helpful substance taken from this plant is emodin, which helps regulate bowel movement. Likewise, the plant is especially useful due to its capacity to survive at any time of the year and in harsh conditions.

However, in so far as Japanese Knotweed has a lot of applications, it is regarded as horrible plant especially in Europe and in North America. In the 19th century, the plant was brought to Europe and the United States, and it was used to feed animals, as an ornamental plant, and to stop soil erosion. The plant has been found to be a liability, nevertheless.

It is regarded as one of the world’s 100 worst invasive species. It is deemed as a serious threat to builders, land developers, and gardeners. Moreover, the troubles it may cause include mutilation to roads, pavements, drains, walls, and even buildings. It may likewise inhabit river banks, thus preventing passage to rivers. Another Japanese Knotweed problem is that it grows easily and quickly. It can spread from small pieces of root cuttings, and it can develop to three to four inches a day. As a result of the destruction that this species of plant can bring, the UK for instance has created the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. The Act prohibits its spread in the wild.

The Japanese Knotweed, definitely, has two aspects. It is an advantage and a burden at the same time. And, it cannot be immediately disregarded as a useful or a bad weed at the same time.