The latest hotspots of Japanese knotweed in Berkshire have been revealed. 

The invasive species is currently "thriving" ahead of its usual growing period due to warmer and wetter weather this winter, experts have said. 

Japanese knotweed can grow up to four inches a day and forms dense thickets which can kill native plant species. 

Data from Environet shows which areas are currently seeing a break out of the species. 

There are a total of 431 verified knotweed sightings in Berkshire, or 0.34 incidences in every 1km².

In the national Japanese knotweed hotspots list, Berkshire is the 15th worst affected county in England.

Reading topped the ranking in Berkshire with 166 occurences within 4km of the town.

(Image: NQ) Across East Berkshire, 28 cases were reported within 4km of Wokingham and 25 were revealed just north of Sandhurst.

Another 34 cases were reported within the Windsor area, while 68 reports came in areas surrounding Slough town centre.

Fewer cases were spotted in areas across West Berkshire, including Newbury, Hungerford and Tadbury.

Only 24 cases were reported in areas surrounding Newbury.

Emily Grant, director of Environet, said, “With over 60,000 known infestations of Japanese knotweed on our heatmap, we have a clear picture of its prevalence across the England and Wales. Knotweed is easily identifiable during summer, but it’s a perennial plant so as we head through the autumn and into winter, the above-ground growth dies back and it becomes much harder to spot.

“The best way to protect your property is to be aware of the risks and ensure you can identify knotweed at different times of the year. If you do have knotweed on your property, it’s wise to act immediately to treat or remove it before it has the chance to spread further. With professional assistance knotweed can be dealt with and the value of a property largely restored. If you’re buying or selling a property, consider instructing a Japanese knotweed survey to check for any sign of the plant on the property and its surroundings.”