The spatial distribution and dispersal dynamics of adventive plants and apophytes at the major railway
lines and stations in the middle part of Westphalia (including the more extended part of the Ruhrgebiet,
the biggest urban-industrial agglomeration in Germany) are discussed. Remarkable dynamics of
migration and colonization of railway areas have taken place within the last few years. The recent range
extension is illustrated by representatively railway plants (Geranium purpureum VILL., G. rotundifolium
L., Tragopogon major JACQ.)