Knowledgebase

identify a vine #342294

Asked July 12, 2016, 7:33 PM EDT

I have an annual (I think) vine growing in a flower bed. First noticed it in late spring and it is now at least 10 feet l ong. It started at the base of my Bay-Wise plaque and has now jumped to my trellis with clematis and honeysuckle. The leaves are heart shaped and opposite on the stem with flowers growing from the leaf stem. The leaves are large 5x7 inches with the leaves getting smaller along the vine. The flowers are small and a deep purple and in a circular cluster at each leaf junction, although the picture doesn't look like a circular cluster-they are getting old. Has been blooming continuously. No aroma. Really like it-but not if it is a nasty.

Charles County Maryland

Expert Response

Based on your photos this vine looks like it may be Cynanchum louiseae, Black Swallow-wort.  You can Google Images and view the link from The Plant Conservation Alliance Alien Plant Working Group https://www.nps.gov/plants/alien/fact/cylo1.htm 
This plant is listed on several invasive lists and we recommend removal.
mh

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