Invasive 'Hitler-Rose' Threatens Coastal Dikes in Northern Germany

The Rosa rugosa, once used for camouflage during WWII, now jeopardizes native plant life and coastal defenses.

The Rosa rugosa, also known as the 'Hitler-Rose,' is spreading rapidly along the North Sea coast of Lower Saxony.
The plant's aggressive growth endangers native species like beach grass, crucial for stabilizing dikes and dunes.
Originally introduced from Asia, the Rosa rugosa was used during WWII to obscure military installations.
The Lower Saxony Water Management, Coastal, and Nature Conservation Agency is undertaking efforts to control its spread.
Efforts to combat the plant are challenging due to its resilience, extensive growth, and the complexity of removal.