Common Parthenium, an invasive plant, found in a community near the entrance to Taroko. National Park Headquarters has mobilized personnel to remove it and prevent it spreading

An invasive plant known internationally as ‘poison grass’ -Common Parthenium (Parthenium hysterophorus Linn銀膠菊)-arived in Taiwan a few years ago and is spreading. Recently it was found in a community near to the entrance to Taroko. In response, the national park headquarters mobilized park staff, volunteers and substitute military service personnel, combining efforts with those of Asia Cement’s Hualian factory, to eradicate the plant and prevent it spreading.

Common Parthenium is a native plant of the southern US and South America. It is listed as one of the top 20 most dangerous invasive plants in Taiwan. It damages the natural environment and is also toxic to humans. The hairs on its surface are toxic and can cause an allergic skin reaction; the pollen can also cause an allergic reaction.

Its leaves resemble those of wormwood (Artemisia argyi艾草) and its flowers are like Baby’s breath (Gypsophila paniculata滿天星 ). The park headquarters called on people to avoid eating the plant by mistake or taking it home to grow.

Common Parthenium releases a chemical substance that inhibits the growth of other plants so it often colonizes a large area and has a serious impact on native plant growth.

The national park recommends that people wear long sleeved clothes, gloves and face masks when pulling up the plants, avoiding direct contact between the plants and skin, and deal with the plants appropriately to prevent Common Parthenium spreading. If this invasive plant is seen by visitors in Taroko National Park, please report the discovery immediately to Taroko National Park’s Conservation Section on 03-862110 ext.702

Translated by：Kevin Lax
Source：Taroko National Park Headquarters