Ornamental plants: our future invaders?
The University's most ambitious exhibit at RHS Chelsea featured a 2.4m high structure representing invasive giant rhubarb (Gunnera tinctoria). It towered over a stand featuring ornamental plants - reported in a survey by over 500 gardeners - that are invading or taking over their garden.
The exhibit included a number of invasive species. There were also plants that are found growing beyond the garden fence or are showing signs of being able to thrive in the natural environment. These are not currently regarded as invasive, prompting the challenging question; which ones will be our future invaders?
This project represents collaboration between the School of Biological Science, the School of Architecture and the Department of Typography and Graphic Communication at the University of Reading. The structure was developed with Xylotek, specialists in timber structures with experience of working with innovative timber forms.
Please contact PhD student Tomos Jones for more information about the project.
