Mile-A-Minute Vine
Mile-a-minute vine (Persicaria perfoliata) fruit, Photo Credit: Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org.
Additional Images
Common Name: Mile-a-minute vine
Scientific Name: Persicaria perfoliata
Origin: Asia
Description
Mile-a-minute is an herbaceous, annual, trailing vine that can reach lengths of 6 m or more. Its stems are covered with barbs, which are also present on the underside of its leaf blades. The light green-colored leaves are triangle-shaped and alternate along the stem. Iridescent blue berry-like fruits are produced in mid-summer and continue until the fall. The seeds within these fruits can remain viable in the soil for up to six years.
Habitat
Mile-a-minute typically colonizes open and disturbed areas such as forested floodplains, stream-side wetlands, upland forests, uncultivated fields and roadsides. Although mile-a-minute will tolerate some shade, it does best in full sunlight.
Threat
Mile-a-minute has gained a reputation as “the kudzu of the north” for its ability to quickly grow over and out-compete native plant species. In ideal growing conditions, a single vine can grow as much as 6″ per day. Because it can smother tree seedlings, mile-a-minute vine can have a negative affect on tree farms, forestry operations, and the reforestation of natural areas.
Management
The most common management methods for mile-a-minute include manual pulling of juvenile plants and selective herbicide treatments. There are also biological control weevils, Rhinoncomimus latipes, that are currently being used for mile-a-minute control.
Regional Distribution
Mile-a-minute vine was discovered at Oak Orchard Wildlife Management Area, Genesee County, in 2017. Early detection monitoring and outreach efforts are currently underway.
WNY PRISM Priority
Tier 2 – Eradication
Invasive Species Priorities – Tier Chart
Pathways
Mile-a-minute vine was introduced to North America through the Nursery and Landscaping industry, through contaminated plant shipments. Seeds are transported by birds, ants, small mammals and deer. Seeds may also be dispersed by streams/water.
Additional Resources:
Mile-a-minute vine is a prohibited species in New York State – for more information on Prohibited and Regulated Species, visit http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/99141.html.
