The first occurrence of Sporobolus indicus in Hungary is reported. The neotropical
S. indicus is one of the oldest introduced neophytes to Europe. From the middle of
the 19(th) century until the last decade of the 20(th) century, apart from a few occasional
occurrences, it expanded only in the Mediterranean area. However, the number of observations
has dramatically increased in the past two decades, even outside the Mediterranean
region. Its recent rapid spread is evident along roads, on lawns and in tourist places
subject to trampling (e.g., campsites). Tourism certainly contributes to the very
successful recent diffusion of the species. Still, global warming, including the increasingly
mild winters in continental Europe, can certainly enhance the establishment and further
dispersal of this cold sensitive species.
