<i>Clematis vitalba</i> (Traveller’s-joy) (Ranunculaceae) is invasive on the Sefton Coast sand-dunes, north Merseyside, UK

Increasing concern about the apparent spread of Clematis vitalba (Traveller’s-joy) in the Sefton Coast sand-dune system, north Merseyside, led to a survey in the summer of 2023 to determine its status. A total of 117 patches of the plant was mapped, covering about 0.64 ha of protected fixed and semi-fixed dune habitats. The pattern of distribution suggested spread by both woody stems and seed. A positive skewness towards smaller and therefore younger patches indicated an early stage in colonisation. The known invasive character of C. vitalba on sand-dunes elsewhere provides a strong case for management action. Methods for controlling C. vitalba are discussed.