Residents on Harris have been battling an infestation of Giant Rhubarb.
The North Harris Trust is trying to control the species, known as Gunnera, focusing efforts at Ardhasaig and Tarbert.
The plant, which can grow to two metres in height, is well suited to the climate and habitat on Harris but rangers have warned it is vital the infestation is brought under control in the next two to three years. Otherwise the invasive species may never be controlled, they have warned.
Gunnera, which is more commonly found in Southern Chile, has large seed heads which can release thousands of seeds that are then spread by birds, wind, water and traffic.
The inedible plant which out competes native plants can lead to habitat loss and has the potential to take over entire crofts.
Mark Lazzeri, land manager at the North Harris Trust, said: "It is an unpleasant looking plant and it is an incredibly invasive species. The canopy shuts out natural light from everything underneath. Left unrestricted it will completely overthrow natural vegetation. If we do not get on top of it in the next two to three years then we may never be able to control it.
"It has spread across north Harris and to parts of south Harris and we now have to work to stop it spreading to Lewis and the other Western Isles."
Mr Lazzeri added that the plants cannot simply be controlled by cutting them down and the seed pods need to be carefully disposed of.
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