kudzu vines covering other plants

Kudzu (Pueraria montana var. lobata). Photo: Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org

Updated: May 11, 2022

About kudzu (Pueraria lobata)

Life cycle

Deciduous, perennial, invasive vine

Growth habit

Can grow up to 100 feet and can engulf entire trees; broad trifoliate leaves may be lobed or entire

infestation of kudzu
Photo: Kerry Britton, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org

Reproduction

Massive root system spreads vegetatively; flowers pea-like, lavender-purple, in clusters produce viable seeds

flower of kudzu
Photo: Peggy Greb, USDA- ARS, Bugwood.org

Conditions that favor growth

Common along roadsides, abandoned fields, and non-crop areas; does not tolerate cultivation or repeated mowings

Cultural control

Remove vegetation before it escapes and covers desirable plants, if possible; keep area cultivated or mowed to keep growth under control

Additional resources

Invasive Vine and Groundcover Control

Plant Invaders of Mid-Atlantic Natural Areas

(PDF) Weeds Gone Wild: Alien Plant Invaders of Natural Areas

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