bushkiller
(Cayratia japonica)
This species is Introduced in the United States
Appearance
Cayratia japonica is a perennial vine with compound leaves.
Foliage
Each leaf has 5 leaflets that are ovate to orbicular, 1.2-3 in. (3-8 cm) long and 0.5-1.5 in. (1.5-4 cm) wide. Tendrils grow opposite each leaf.
Flowers
Flowering occurs in the late summer. The small, salmon-colored flowers develop in umbels.
Fruit
Fruits are black or white berries that each contain 2-4 seeds.
Ecological Threat
It is thought that Cayratia japonica only reproduces vegetatively in North America. Vines can readily climb over other vegetation, where it can block out sunlight to the plants below. It is native to temperate and sub-tropical Asia.
Selected Images
Maps
EDDMapS Distribution - This map is incomplete and is based only on current site and county level reports made by experts, herbaria, and literature. For more information, visit www.eddmaps.org
State Lists - This map identifies those states that have this species on their invasive species list or law.
Invasive Listing Sources
Taxonomic Rank
| Domain: Eukarya |
| Kingdom: Plantae |
| Phylum: Magnoliophyta |
| Class: Magnoliopsida |
| Superorder: Rosanae |
| Order: Vitales |
| Family: Vitaceae |
| Genus: Cayratia |
| Cayratia japonica |
References
Common Name Reference: USDA, NRCS. 2010. The PLANTS Database. National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA.
Scientific Name Reference: USDA, NRCS. 2010. The PLANTS Database. National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA.