Projects

The Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council (FLEPPC) lists cat’s-claw vine as a Category I invasive species, which means it’s expanding and displacing native plants. 

Cat’s-claw vine can be found in many Florida counties, but is especially prevalent in the central and southeastern peninsula. It can grow in disturbed areas, along the edges of woods, and in forested areas. 

Cat’s-claw vine can smother trees and other vegetation by climbing into the forest canopy and spreading across the ground. It can also prevent sunlight from reaching plants below. 

Cat’s-claw vine has bright yellow, tubular flowers that bloom in the spring. It also has three-pronged, claw-like structures on its stem that help it climb trees. 

To eradicate cat’s-claw vine, you can try:

• Cutting the vines and digging up any tubers 
• Continually cutting and mowing to prevent seed production 
• Treating the cut ends of the vines with a herbicide like glyphosate or triclopyr 

The Florida Department of Agriculture is considering adding cat’s-claw vine to its noxious weed list, which would make it illegal to sell or propagate in Florida.