The hotspots for Japanese knotweed in Somerset
According to invasive plant specialist Environet, there are 583 verified sightings of Japanese knotweed in Somerset, with 0.36 cases per square mile.
The figures come from Exposed: The Japanese Knotweed Heatmap, an online tool that tracks more than 100,000 verified sightings across the UK.
The map allows the public to search by postcode, view infestation risk levels, and submit new reports with photos for expert verification.
Here are the top Japanese knotweed hotspots in Somerset for 2025:
1 Bath - 159
2 Portishead - 37
3 Clevedon - 30
4 Weston-Super-Mare - 24
5 Keynsham - 21
=6 Taunton - 15
=6 Winscombe - 14
8 Wincanton - 12
9 Radstock - 11
10 Nailsea - 11
Japanese knotweed, introduced to the UK in the Victorian era, spreads via underground rhizomes that can grow up to 3 metres deep and 7 metres wide.
While serious structural damage is rare, the plant can lower property values and lead to disputes.
A DEFRA report estimated the annual cost of tackling knotweed in the UK at nearly £250 million.
Environet Director Emily Grant said: 'By mapping verified sightings, we're helping people understand the level of risk in their local area and encouraging early identification and treatment.'
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