First report of Amelanchier × lamarckii in Lithuania
Early detection and rapid response are crucial in managing the impact of non-native species. By identifying these species at an early stages of invasion, land managers can implement control measures before they become widespread and difficult to manage. Over 90 alien woody species have been documented in Lithuania. During field survey of roadside vegetation in May 2023 a plant from the genus Amelanchier was found flowering along the roadside and it was identified as Amelanchier × lamarckii, which has a North American origin. It was found in the northwestern part of the country between Palendriai and Panūdžiai villages, in dry grassland habitat. Individuals of A. × lamarckii were dispersed over an area of 1300 m2 along roadside habitats and in shrubbery close to the roadside. The population consists of 50 individuals, ranging from 0.5–2.5 m. It is likely that A. × lamarckii occurs in this area as a result of birds depositing seeds from a nearby mature individual in the grounds of a monastery.
Sources
Petrulaitis L (2025) First record of non-native woody species Amelanchier × lamarckii (Rosaceae), in Lithuania. BioInvasions Records 14(1), 19–30