First report of Klasea quinquefolia in Italy
Klasea quinquefolia (Asteraceae) is a perennial and rhizomatous species native to the Russian Caucasus, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iran, and Asian parts of Türkiye. In the native range, K. quinquefolia occurs in deciduous forests or open areas at altitudes between 300 – 2 200 m a.s.l. K. quinquefolia was first recorded in Italy in August 2023 at the Monza Park, Monza (Monza and Brianza province), Lombardy. In total 10 populations were found ranging from a few individuals to 120-140 individuals occupying an area of 8.5 hectares. In total, the population was approximately 500 individuals with approximately 350 flowering individuals. The population occurred on the edge of a forest along a pathway. Continuous monitoring is required of the population to provide information on the invasion potential of
K. quinquefolia. Eradication may be possible.
Sources
Borghesan S, Fasano F, Crippa A, Quaglini LA, Citterio S, Banfi E, Galasso G, Gentili R (2024) First record of Klasea quinquefolia (M.Bieb. ex Willd.) Greuter & Wagenitz (Asteraceae) in Italy. BioInvasions Records 13, 577–588.