Neophyten in Mitteleuropa

Neophytes in Central Europe – Success stories of invasive alien plant species Since the 17th century, the introduction of alien plant species has been increasing constantly. They have been introduced intentionally (for example as ornamental garden plants) or accidentally. More than 430 alien species are permanent wild plants in Germany by now, mainly growing in anthropogenic, ruderal habitats without causing any problems. However, some of them build up large, monodominant stands in near‐natural sites. They cause negative impacts on native species diversity, ecosystems or even human health. These species are considered as invasive. They are tough to manage because of their high regenerative capacity and intensive reproduction. Climate change will probably produce more favourable conditions for many of them. Thus preventive action against their further dispersal and against new invasions is of particular importance.