Help the Hillsborough Tree Board eliminate Japanese knotweed, an invasive plant endangering native species.

Japanese knotweed (Reynoutria japonica) has been identified in several areas of town. The highly invasive plant can form tall, dense stands, crowding out native plants. Knotweed is commonly found in flood zones along waterways but can grow almost anywhere, including pavement cracks, roadside ditches and vacant lots.

The plant has smooth, hollow stems and alternating semi-triangular leaves. It blooms in late summer and early fall, growing spikes of small white flowers. Its roots can extend up to 10 feet deep.

Removal

Japanese knotweed spreads through disturbance, including flooding and erosion. Please do not attempt to remove knotweed by yourself. The plant grows back quickly if any roots are left behind.

Instead, contact Senior Administrative Support Specialist Lindsay Rhew by using the contact form or calling 919-296-9600. Volunteers will remove the plant on public land and advise owners on removal on private property.

Volunteer

Interested in helping remove invasive plants from Hillsborough’s public spaces?

The Tree Board's invasive species removal team meets weekly to remove invasive plants and add native plants in Hillsborough’s public spaces.

The team gathers for two hours on Wednesdays, meeting in morning during the warmer months and in the afternoon in cooler months. Contact the Public Space and Sustainability Division to be connected.