Knowledgebase

Identification of new vine that looks similar to poison ivy #716275

Asked August 22, 2020, 11:41 AM EDT

I have noticed a recent growth of a vine very similar to poison ivy. It seems to be growing over everything and I would like to get rid of it. Is there some place I could send a sample and get information on its identification and how to control it? This is a vine with a four petal white flower and leaves that look similar to poison ivy. Unlike poison ivy, where the leaves alternate on the stem, the leaf clusters are not alternating but are across from each other.

Midland County Michigan

Expert Response

We cannot help without a picture. The MSU Plant and Pest Diagnostic lab during Covid asks you email pictures and description to <personal data hidden>
If they need a sample, they will contact you.

To attach pictures here, click the “Choose File” button, one for each picture. 
I will,watch for,your response, if you can attach clear pictures of the vine with at least 4 leaves attached along the stem, and a picture of the fruit or flowers would help.
Thank you for your question!   Laura S.      Michigan State University Extension Advanced Master Gardener Volunteer You may also contact the toll free MSU Extension lawn and garden hotline at 1-888-678-3464 with your gardening questions or visit www.migarden.msu.edu for Smart Gardening resources. Replied August 22, 2020, 1:04 PM EDT
Attached are the photos of the the plant
The Question Asker Replied August 23, 2020, 12:37 PM EDT
Here are some additional pictures
The Question Asker Replied August 23, 2020, 12:54 PM EDT

Thank you for the pictures.

Good news, this is not poison ivy.

This is a native vine called Virgin’s Bower, Clematis virginiana... Here are a couple references. 

http://dendro.cnre.vt.edu/dendrology/syllabus/factsheet.cfm?ID=1011

http://climbers.lsa.umich.edu/?p=450

Digging, cutting to the ground repeatedly, or herbicide labeled for weeds, and used carefully so as not to affect desirable plants, will control it. Clip off flowers so the don’t drop seed. Cutting the vine at ground level and painting  stump with glyphosate is a common technique. Please, always follow all label directions and precautions.

Thank you for your question!   Laura S.      Michigan State University Extension Advanced Master Gardener Volunteer You may also contact the toll free MSU Extension lawn and garden hotline at 1-888-678-3464 with your gardening questions or visit www.migarden.msu.edu for Smart Gardening resources. Replied August 23, 2020, 1:46 PM EDT
Thank you for the prompt response to my question.  It is widespread and is basically growing over everything.  This is the first year I have seen such a large area being overgrown.  Will have to go about getting rid of it, in addition to the buckthorn.

Thanks!!
The Question Asker Replied August 24, 2020, 6:22 PM EDT
You are welcome, good luck with the project.
Thank you for your question!   Laura S.      Michigan State University Extension Advanced Master Gardener Volunteer You may also contact the toll free MSU Extension lawn and garden hotline at 1-888-678-3464 with your gardening questions or visit www.migarden.msu.edu for Smart Gardening resources. Replied August 24, 2020, 7:00 PM EDT

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