Ipomoea imperati (Vahl) Griseb. (Convolvulaceae): a new plant invader in the Cádiz Province

Abstract

The first records of Ipomoea imperati (Vahl) Griseb (Convolvulaceae) in the province of Cádiz are documented. This rhizomatous and creeping species is native to North America. I. imperati was found as incipient naturalized populations (between 300-750 m2) on beaches from Barbate and Algeciras municipalities. In both cases, I. imperati colonizes shifting (yellow) dunes with different levels of development. The origin of the introduction is uncertain. The risk assessment resulted in a high risk of invasion of habitats of Community interest