Recent heavy rainfall has seen a boom in reported sightings of destructive Japanese knotweed.

The invasive species, which can grow up to four inches a day, thrives almost anywhere and can cause structural damage to property.

Following one of the wettest Februarys on record and higher-than-average temperatures, it is thriving "well ahead" of its usual growing season, say experts.

According to invasive plant specialists Environet an estimated 5pc of homes are affected across the UK. 

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Its interactive online heatmap of breakouts shows there are already 29 reported knotweed occurrences within 4km of Oxford city with more sightings added every day.

Oxford Mail: Japanese Knotweed

There are 11 occurrences within 4km of Abingdon and seven within 4km of Banbury.

You do not legally have to remove Japanese knotweed from your land unless it’s causing a nuisance, but you can be prosecuted for causing it to spread into the wild.

How to identify Japanese knotweed

The plant has distinctive red stems and bamboo-like appearance. It can grow up to 8ft tall and its roots can reach as wide as 28ft.

Why is it thriving in Oxfordshire?

The Property Care Association has received reports of early growth of the red stems in February, well ahead of its usual growing season.

PCA’s Invasive Weed Control Group technical manager Daniel Docking said: “We can still expect late season frosts and dry weather in March and April, but Japanese knotweed has already started to establish itself and the resilience of the plant will mean it is in a strong position to thrive.

“At the moment many plants are doing well due to the weather conditions, including native species.

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“But we’d still suspect the temperature to drop, meaning many plants will slow down their growth pattern.

Oxford Mail: Knotweed hotspots

“However, Japanese knotweed will be largely unaffected by these changes and that means it can start to dominate environments, with more opportunities to spread.”

How to stop knotweed spreading

To stop Japanese knotweed spreading do not treat it yourself unless you have the appropriate skills and experience. You can find companies that specialise in treating the problem.

Methods usually include spraying, burying or burning it.

You can contact the Environment Agency for help if you have more questions about how to handle waste containing Japanese knotweed or want to find out more about when you need a licence to dispose of Japanese knotweed.