Six key signs of Japanese knotweed that could knock thousands off house prices

21 January 2024 , 07:14

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The invasive Japanese knotweed can impact you home and those of neighbouring properties (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Japanese knotweed experts have revealed the six key signs that could knock thousands off your house value.

The hugely invasive and fast-growing plant can have an impact on your garden, but also your home and neighbouring gardens too. But there are some key signs of Japanese knotweed to look out for, which could help homeowners to identify it and take action.

Homeowners need to be particularly wary, as even the slightest presence of Japanese knotweed in the garden can deter potential future buyers - and even lead to banks refusing a mortgage application.

Japanese knotwood can be a menace which can impact the value of your house (Getty Images)

Six signs of Japanese knotweed

1. The plant has bamboo-like stems and large, heart-shaped green leaves

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2. Its newly rolled leaves are usually dark red in colour

3. The plant grows in a recognisable zigzag pattern.

4. It is a very fast grower and its has been known to reach up to 10cm per day.

5. Clusters of its white flowers are seen around late summer.

6. Its roots are orange and easy to identify if cut into or disturbed.

Those who are unfortunate to find Japanese knotweed on their property should seek professional help. They should also inform their neighbours, who may also have to take action to dispose of it. Anyone who does try to cover up its growth could face a fine.

The plant is easier to remove the less established it is. But homeowners are warned not to use standard weed killers to destroy it themselves, as it could make it more difficult to get rid of professionally.

Anyone who tries to bury, burn or dispose of any part of the plant must first have the permission of local councils and the Environment Agency.

Japanese knotweed grows fast and pushes other species away (BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images)

Samantha Jones, a gardening expert at MyJobQuote.co.uk told Express.co.uk: “Japanese knotweed is a herbaceous perennial that has a similar appearance to bamboo with large green leaves. This plant offers a wide range of health benefits, however, it can actually cause significant damage to a property, as it is a very invasive plant, especially in late spring when canes can reach up to three metres high. Japanese knotweed can be quite problematic, especially if it has grown significantly.”

The invasive plant is difficult to eradicate and professional help is required (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Issues associated with the weed include getting building insurance, as a lot of insurance policies will not cover damage caused by Japanese knotweed. The expert, however, said the invasive species is quite “easy to spot” due to its easily identifiable leaves white flowers and orange colouring when disturbed.

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