Life history of Ulex europaeus and management actions to control its invasion

Ulex europaeus is one of the most aggressive invasive species for natural systems. It affects the dynamics of the landscape, alters the original edaphic composition, and can eliminate grasslands and crops. Dense thickets of Ulex europaeus compete for resources and space with native taxa, reducing richness and diversity. It has been found that fire favors Ulex europaeus regeneration and threatens native species communities and populations. In this review, the ecology of the species, its geographical distribution and management actions were analyzed. The control of Ulex europaeus is more efficient in juvenile stages and in low invasion densities. The treatments used, including herbicides, biological controls, manual removal and fire, have not been widely successful, due to the heterogeneous conditions and the history of invasion of each territory. A literature review shows that there is an information gap regarding the combined management strategies, different periods of time and constant monitoring that allow for the control and eradication of this species, establishing the characteristics and particularities of each region.