Here are four invasive wild flowers that I came across growing in Portugal last year (left to right) –
Chicory (Cichorium intybus) – although native to some parts of Europe, it is also now a well established invasive species in Portugal that can be found growing along pond and ditch sides, roadsides and other disturbed areas. As well as looking pretty, parts of these plants have also been known to have beneficial ‘gut’ health properties.
Indian Shot (Canna indica) – Endemic of South America, canna indica is now well established in Portugal as well as other parts of Europe and many other parts of the world too. A very pretty flower that has also historically been known to have been used for health benefits amongst some communities.
Bermuda Buttercup (Oxalis pes-caprae) – another well established ‘invasive species’ that spreads rapidly and has become out of control in some areas. This pretty bright yellow plant is often found growing in marshy and moist areas as well as alongside roads and highways and in many areas, due to it’s highly invasive behaviour, strong eradication efforts are in place to try and control its spread.
American Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) – an herbaceous invasive species found in many areas that has a fondness for farmland were it is considered to cause severe damage to crops and plants. Also known as ‘pokeweed’ and ‘pokeberry’ amongst others, this plant is toxic to humans and animals but birds can feed on the berries without issue and this in turn aids seed distribution of the plant.
Full size images can be seen in the Flora Gallery
