Species Overview

Native to: Mexico to South America

Cypress vine has been widely cultivated as an ornamental and escaped cultivation in much of the eastern United States into Canada and in California. It is also invasive numerous other countries. In Florida, it can be found in many disturbed habitats and natural areas. The UF IFAS Assessment of Non-Native Plants in Florida’s Natural Areas lists it as having high invasion risk.

Species Characteristics

Family: Convolvulaceae

Habit: Annual climbing vine.

Leaves: Bright green, fernlike, and compound.

Flowers: Small (3/4 inch), tubular, primarily bright red and occasionally white.

Fruit/ Seeds: a dry capsule, splits to release seeds.

Distribution in Florida: Throughout

Impacts

Cypress vine is a prolific reseeder and fast growing. These characteristics allow it to smother and outcompete native vegetation. Negative impacts on peanut, cotton, and citrus agricultural production have been documented. It is toxic to dogs, cats and horses.

Do not plant.

Hand pull new sprouts in Spring. Sheet mulching can reduce germination.

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None known.

Consult your local UF IFAS Extension Office for management recommendations.