𝘏𝘦𝘥𝘺𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘶𝘮 – a threat to the Azorean biodiversity

Oct. 6, 2021

The “Congas” or “False-ginger” (Hedychium spp.) are among the 50 most dangerous exotic species of Macaronesia (Silva et al., 2008).

This plant constitutes a huge threat both in the Azores and Madeira, due to their rhizomes (a stem capable of creating roots) that have a great reproductive potential, forming large densities of vegetation that prevent other neighboring species from getting sunlight and surviving.

On La Palma, some individuals are already beginning to be seen, mainly due to the abandonment of leftover rhizomes from private gardens. From all the species from the family, the most dangerous is Hedychium gardnerianum, with a yellow flower, which we can see in the image.  

The Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Change develops daily several actions to fight against this and other invasive species, to preserve the endemic flora of the Region.

Find out more on www.lifeazoresnatura.eu/en.