Invasive Crassula helmsii spreads across Schleswig-Holstein

The invasive plant species Crassula helmsii, commonly known as New Zealand pigmyweed, is spreading across Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. Originally from Australia and New Zealand, the plant forms dense mats along water edges and on sand, threatening to displace native species and damage protected habitats.

The State Office for the Environment (LfU) has warned of “significant negative impacts on native species and valuable habitats.” The plant is particularly dangerous to the rare and legally protected moist dune valleys found on North Sea islands such as Sylt, Amrum, and Föhr.

Since 2025, the European Union has classified the plant as an “invasive alien species of Union concern,” making its trade and possession illegal throughout Europe. Authorities are prioritizing the prevention of further spread and the removal of existing plants, urging the public to report any suspected sightings.