![](/pics/cocci.jpg) Naturalization
This species is not yet naturalised in Belgium.
Establishment potential in Belgium : medium
It is already invasive in : France, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland
![](/pics/cocci.jpg) Invasiveness
Reproduction in the wild: |
no |
Dispersion potential: |
likely |
Natural habitats: |
likely |
More on naturalization and invasiveness: The American pokeweed is widely naturalised in ruderal sites and in nature-like habitats in southern Europe, extending northwards to central France. Semi-natural habitats colonised include heaths, open woodlands, clearcut areas and forest edges. In Belgium, it is commonly used as an ornamental; it is planted in gardens and public green areas but doesn't reproduce in the wild so far.
![](/pics/cocci.jpg) Impacts on Species
Predation / Herbivory: |
low |
Competition: |
high |
Disease transmission: |
low |
Genetic effects: |
low |
![](/pics/cocci.jpg) Impacts on Ecosystems
Nutrient cycling: |
unknown |
Physical alteration: |
unknown |
Natural successions: |
likely |
Food web alteration: |
low |
More on impacts: Under suitable environment conditions, P. americana forms dense populations that can outcompete native vegetation and prevent regeneration of forest species. The plant produces toxic saponins.
![](/pics/cocci.jpg) Data Source & References
Authors: |
Branquart Etienne, Vanderhoeven Sonia, Van Landuyt Wouter, Van Rossum Fabienne, Verloove Filip |
Published on: |
16 March 2009 |
Last update: |
17 December 2010 |
References:
Dumas, Y. (2011)
Que savons-nous du raisin d'Amérique (Phytolacca americana), espèce exotique envahissante ? ![](/pics/page_white_magnify.png)
Rendez-vous techniques 33-34: 48-57.
Wittenberg, R. (2005)
An inventory of alien species and their threat to biodiversity and economy in Switzerland. ![](/pics/page_white_acrobat.png)
CABI Bioscience Switzerland Centre report to the Swiss Agency for Environment, Forests and Landscape. The environment in practice no. 0629: 155p.
![](/pics/cocci.jpg) Other Internet Links
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