- Appearance
- Akebia quinata is an invasive deciduous to evergreen climbing or trailing vine that invades forested areas throughout the eastern United States. The twining vines are green when young, turning brown as they age.
- Foliage
- The leaves are palmately compound with up to five, 1.5-3 in. (2.5-7.6 cm) long, oval leaflets.
- Flower
- Flowering occurs in the mid-spring, when small, purple to red, fragrant flowers develop.
- Fruit
- Fruit, which are rarely produced, are purple seed pods that contain white pulp and small black seeds.
- Ecological Threat
- Akebia quinata is able to invade forested habitats because it is shade tolerant. The dense mat of vines formed can displace native understory species. It can also climb into, smother, and kill small trees and shrubs. Akebia quinata is native to eastern Asia and was first introduced into the United States in 1845 as an ornamental.
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