On certain issues of biology and ecology of Sosnowsky’s hogweed (Heracleum sosnowskyi Manden)

Abstract

The distribution of Heracleum sosnowskyi in Bryansk oblast is assessed. Characteristic features of flowering and seed-based reproduction are considered, and a list of insects found on hogweed inflorescences is given. The mechanism of hogweed invasion into natural communities is addressed. Penetration into natural communities is related to anthropochorous dispersal and damage to the vegetative cover. High seed productivity, the formation of a large seed pool, the presence of dormant plants, and rapid development during the spring period enable the rapid dispersal of Heracleum sosnowskyi in the secondary range. Communities of the association Urtico dioicae–Heracleetum sosnowskyi Panasenko et al., 2014 are common in the region. Tree communities that include Heracleum sosnowskyi (Heracleum sosnowskyi–Salix fragilis, Heracleum sosnowskyi–Betula pendula) are scarce in Bryansk oblast.