DOI: https://doi.org/10.5513/JCEA01/27.2.4898
Original scientific paper
Global distribution and invasive potential of Arundo donax and Paulownia spp.: a case study in Slovakia
2026, 27 (2) p. 532-544
Žaneta PAUKOVÁ, Martin HAUPTVOGL
Abstract
The cultivation of fast-growing plant species for biomass production is frequently promoted in European policies aimed at enhancing energy security and sustainability. Still, the role of biomass varies widely across EU regions. However, some of these species pose ecological risks due to their invasive potential. The recorded global distributions of Arundo donax and Paulownia spp. exhibit similar patterns, with the highest concentrations occurring in Europe and North America, indicating widespread introduction and suggesting ongoing naturalization of both species across many regions beyond their native ranges. This study evaluates the invasive potential of the fast-growing perennial grass Arundo donax and two fast-growing woody taxa of Paulownia, the clone R112 and hybrid 9501. These taxa are cultivated at the research base of the Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra (village Kolíňany), located in western Slovakia. A nine-year field study revealed that Arundo donax presents a high invasion risk, with a potential invasion score of 18, primarily due to its aggressive vegetative spread and its ability to form dense stands that displace native vegetation. Despite the absence of generative reproduction, its rapid vegetative propagation underscores the need for active monitoring. Similarly, a ten-year evaluation of Paulownia clone R112 and hybrid 9501 yielded potential invasion scores of 15 and 13, respectively. While the studied Paulownia plants did not produce viable seeds, they exhibited vigorous vegetative reproduction through root suckers. However, future hybridisation with Paulownia tomentosa remains a concern, as this could result in viable seed production and facilitate further spread. The study thus highlights the importance of long-term monitoring and management of these species to prevent uncontrolled expansion and mitigate associated ecological risks.
Keywords
Arundo donax, Paulownia spp., invasion potential, fast-growing plant
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