Switzerland has banned the sale and import of the cherry laurel from September 1, with the aim of preventing the spread of this invasive species that is often used as a hedge.
The new measure does not require gardeners to remove and destroy existing specimens.
The plant, whose Latin name is Prunus laurocerasus, originates from Asia Minor. It is an evergreen that is resistant to heat and drought and grows rapidly into an impenetrable barrier.
The cherry laurel provides little for indigenous insects as it contains toxins. It offers little by way of nectar to domestic bees and butterflies and is also avoided by browsing animals.
If ingested, cyanide-containing prussic acid can be formed in the stomach.
“Invasive, non-indigenous species may cause ecological, economic and health harm,” the government said on announcing the ban. It said the cherry laurel often spread so quickly that it pushed out indigenous plants, taking food away from insects.
According to a report from the UN’s biodiversity platform (IPBES), invasive species have played a key role in 60% of animal and plant extinctions.
Switzerland has banned a total of 31 imported plant species.