Definitions
Neophytes: Alien plant species that have been introduced after the year of 1500 and are established in nature.
Invasive species: Species that spread rapidly and reach high abundances, so that they crowd out native species.
Black List: List of invasive alien plants of Switzerland that actually cause damage in the areas of biodiversity, health, and/or economy. The establishment and the spread of these species must be prevented.
Watch List: List of invasive alien plants of Switzerland which have the potential to cause damage. Their spread needs to be monitored and if necessary prevented. They already cause damage in neighbouring countries.

These lists are brought up to date periodically on the basis of information obtained and the distribution cards of the CRSF.

-> To enable a decision as to whether an alien plant species (neophyte) should be added to the Black List or to the Watch List, a classification key was elaborated (in German, French, Italian).