New distribution records of the alien plant – Sicyos angulatus L. (Cucurbitaceae) from Georgia

Abstract

The invasion of alien plants into the territory of Georgia started in ancient times and continues today. Sicyos angulatus L., a species of North American origin, is an example of such an invasion. The first established populations of S. angulatus occurrence in Georgia were observed in 2012. Since then, new localities have been recorded, both in agricultural and disturbed natural communities. The species, which has easily adapted to local soil and climatic conditions, is expanding every year and is already widely spread in west Georgia. The plant is characterized by fast and intense growth and a climbing habit using other plants as a support. In this contribution, the peculiarities of its distribution in Georgia and the morphological features and life-history characteristics of Georgian populations are provided.