As of August 7, 2025, the European Union has added seven new plant species to the Union list. The terrestrial plants now included are Acacia mearnsii (black wattle), Broussonetia papyrifera (paper mulberry), Delairea odorata (Cape ivy), Fallopia japonica (synonym Reynoutria japonica, Japanese knotweed), Fallopia sachalinensis (synonym Reynoutria sachalinensis, giant knotweed), and Fallopia × bohemica (synonym Reynoutria × bohemica, Bohemian knotweed). The aquatic and riparian plant added is Crassula helmsii (swamp stonecrop).

What does it mean if a species is on the Union list?
If a species is on the Union list, it is not allowed to trade, cultivate, transport or import it in the EU. Additionally, EU countries are required to detect and remove wild populations. If that is not possible, they must manage the population to prevent its spread and minimize damage as much as possible.

Union list species in your possession?
Do you have Union list species in your possession? And are you a commercial holder? Then check which transition arrangements (link in Dutch) apply to you. Not a commercial holder? Read which rules (link in Dutch) are relevant to you.

Why are invasive species on the Union List?
These invasive species are placed on the Union list because they cause harm to biodiversity and/or ecosystem services in parts of the EU, or they are likely to do so in the future. They can also have adverse effects on human health, safety, or the economy.

Source: www.floraldaily.com