Both the Japanese climbing fern and the Old World climbing fern are invasive species in Florida:
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Japanese climbing fernThis fern is native to Eastern Asia and was likely introduced to Florida in 1932 as an ornamental plant. It can grow in moist or dry woods, along rivers and ditches, and in disturbed areas. It’s most common in North and West Florida, but has been found as far south as Collier and Broward counties.
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Old World climbing fernThis fern is native to Africa, Asia, and Australia and was first found in South Florida in the late 1950s. It’s an aggressive fern that can quickly spread without disturbing the habitat. It can cover and kill trees, shrubs, and plants, which can degrade wildlife habitats. It’s also flammable and can carry fire into wetland and swamp areas.
Both ferns are regulated by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as Noxious Weeds.
To control invasive climbing ferns, you can:
- Isolate the vines from other plants before applying herbicides
- Remove small plants, making sure to get all root material
- Decontaminate clothing, equipment, and vehicles
- Report any suspected sightings outside of the current known range to EDDMapS
