skunk vine (Paederia foetida) is an invasive species in Florida: 

  • Origin
    Native to Asia, the U.S. Department of Agriculture introduced skunk vine to Florida in the late 19th century as a potential fiber crop. 

  • Impact
    Skunk vine is a fast-growing vine that can climb trees or trail along the ground. It can form thick masses of vegetation that can cover acres, smother understory plants, and damage or kill trees. 

  • Regulation
    Skunk vine is a Category 1 invasive species in Florida, which means it is illegal to sell, import, grow, propagate, or transport it. 

  • Control
    Herbicides are one of the most effective ways to control skunk vine. You can also try mechanical methods like digging out the roots or cutting the vine from a tree. 

  • Distribution
    Skunk vine is most common in west-central Florida, but it has also been documented in other parts of the state and in other states.