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Water primrose
(Ludwigia grandiflora, Ludwigia peploides and Ludwigia uruguayensis)
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Water primrose © Trevor Renals
A non-native invasive plant.
Originally introduced as an ornamental and water garden plant. The water primrose bears bright yellow flowers but can cause havoc if released in the wild.
It is currently listed under Schedule 9 to the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 with respect to England and Wales, meaning it is an offence to plant or otherwise allow this species to grow in the wild.
Distribution
Invasive non-native water primroses are currently known from just a handful of sites in Britain. Control work is being carried out at each site with the hope of eradicating this plant in the wild.
Habitat
Aquatic habitats
What's the problem?
Water primrose can have a devastating effect on native habitats by out-competing native species and clogging waterways. Early identification and removal is essential if the significant and expensive damage inflicted by this plant on wetlands in France is to be avoided here.
What are we doing about it?
Find out more about Plantlife's invasive plant programme by clicking here.