Rhododendron

 

Attractive as they are, the bright mauve flowers of rhododendrons hide a dark secret, left unchecked they'll choke and overwhelm our natural flora, smothering wildlife habitats and rendering the soil toxic to many of our native species. The rhododendron may only have arrived in Britain in the late 1700s, though they're such a common sight I'd imagine many would think them native. They're classified as a non native invasive species and with good reason, with no predators and the ability of each of their numerous flowers to produce up to 7000 seeds, they'll spread through and colonize woodland with alarming speed. Once established they're buggers to get rid of too.

Rhododendron

Exotic and delicate, the flowers of Rhododendrons (Rhododendron ponticum)  create quite a colourful spectacle amongst our native woodland, really rather beautiful, they definitely stand out. I imagine that's why they originally grew popular for the gardens of country estates and parks, and why their  popularity continues today.  Sadly though, I'm bound to cut them down whenever I have the opportunity (in the wild, not in peoples gardens I hasten to add). They're non native and invasive, having been introduced in the 18th century from China (although in recent years there's been the suggestion British ones originated in the Mediterranean), and pose an extreme threat to both our natural flora and fauna. With no threats, few pests or diseases and being prolific reproducers Rhododendrons can rapidly colonize and dominate, their leaves create dense cover blocking out the sun, nothing grows under their canopy, little lives in it and their liking of acid soils means they thrive around here. When I stumble upon them in flower though they stir mixed emotions, initially I think wow nice show, though almost immediately I know they really need to go.