Kerria japonica, commonly known as Japanese kerria or Japanese rose, is indeed considered an invasive plant in some areas. As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have encountered instances where kerria has become a nuisance due to its tendency to spread aggressively.
One of the main reasons why kerria can be invasive is its ability to reproduce through suckering. Suckering refers to the plant’s ability to send up new shoots from its roots or base. These shoots can quickly grow into new plants, creating dense thickets of kerria if left unchecked. This can be particularly problematic in gardens and landscapes where space is limited and other desirable plants may be crowded out.
Additionally, while not very common, kerria does produce fruits and seeds, which can contribute to its invasive potential. The fruits are small, round, and green, turning brown as they mature. Inside each fruit are multiple seeds that can be dispersed by birds or other animals, allowing kerria to spread beyond its original planting location.
Personal experience has shown me that kerria can be quite persistent once it becomes established. I have seen instances where it has taken over large areas of gardens, displacing other plants and becoming difficult to remove. Its suckering habit and occasional seed production make it a formidable invader in certain situations.
To prevent kerria from becoming invasive, it is important to take proactive measures. Regular monitoring of the plant is essential to detect any signs of spreading. If suckers or new shoots are noticed, they should be promptly removed by digging them up and cutting them back to the ground. This will help prevent the plant from establishing new colonies.
Furthermore, it is recommended to plant kerria in containers or use root barriers to restrict its spread. This can be particularly useful when planting kerria in smaller gardens or near other plants that may be sensitive to its aggressive growth.
While not invasive in all situations, Kerria japonica has the potential to become invasive due to its suckering habit and occasional fruit and seed production. As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges posed by kerria’s aggressive growth. Taking proactive measures to control its spread and monitoring its growth are crucial to preventing kerria from becoming an invasive issue in gardens and landscapes.
