Rosa rugosa in Bulgaria
Rosa rugosa (Rosaceae) is native to East Asia and is an established invasive alien plant within the EPPO region. The species was first introduced into the EPPO region as a garden ornamental species at the beginning of the 20th century. The species is widespread within the EPPO region where it can have negative impacts on biodiversity and related ecosystem services. In Bulgaria, R. rugosa was introduced in the mid-20th century for cultivation for its edible rosehips. Naturalized localities have been recorded in three floristic regions: Black Sea Coast (Northern), Balkan Range (Western) and Rhodopi Mts (Central). In all locations, the populations are relatively small, usually a few square metres, and no invasive behaviour of the species has been observed so far. However, the behaviour of the species should be monitored as it is still cultivated in parts of the country and further escapes may occur into the natural environment.
Sources
Vladimirov V, Petrova A, Stoyanov S, Bancheva S, Delcheva M (2018) Rosa rugosa (Rosaceae): an alien species in the Bulgarian flora. Phytologia Balcanica 24, 337-341. |