Pennsylvania residents are being urged to watch for Japanese knotweed, one of the state’s most aggressive invasive plants. Often mistaken for bamboo, the fast-growing plant can reach heights of 3 to 12 feet and spread rapidly through an extensive underground root system. Japanese knotweed grows quickly and pushes out other species, which means the birds and insects those plants need to survive are also at risk of disappearing. 

DCNR has fact sheets available to help identify this invasive plant and other trees, shrubs, vines, herbs, and aquatic plants. The fact sheets also include treatment and protection suggestions for property owners.