Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) is an invasive, perennial herbaceous plant that is also known as Mexican Bamboo, Fleeceflower, Japanese Polygonum or Huzhang.

Japanese Knotweed is native to eastern Asia (Japan, Korea, China and Taiwan), where it is relatively uncommon and one of the first species to grow after eruptions or disturbance on volcanic slopes. It was introduced to North America as a horticultural plant in the late 19th century and was widely planted as an ornamental, for the purposes of erosion control, and as forage for livestock. It has escaped cultivation to become an aggressive invader in North America as well as Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. The first record of Japanese Knotweed in Ontario is from 1901, in Niagara Falls and is now reported in many locations throughout southern Ontario, and as far north as Thunder Bay.

Please note the Japanese Knotweed Best Management Practices Guide and Technical Bulletin are currently undergoing an update.