Japanese Climbing Fern (Lygodium japonicum): Invasive Vine-Like Fern to Avoid

Overview

The Japanese climbing fern (Lygodium japonicum) is a twining, vine-like fern native to eastern Asia. Unlike typical ferns, its fronds are actually twining, leafy rachises that can climb 30–90 feet into trees and shrubs, forming dense mats that smother native vegetation. Introduced as an ornamental in the 1930s, it has become a serious invasive species across the southeastern United States, listed as a noxious weed in multiple states.

Identification & Spread

• Growth Habit: Wiry, twining stems (rachises) with finely divided leaflets.
• Reproduction: Tiny spores spread by wind, water, equipment, and pine straw mulch.
• Habitat: Forest edges, wetlands, roadsides, disturbed areas.

Management

Do not plant. If present, remove promptly—pull young plants, cut climbing stems, and bag spores. Herbicide treatment (glyphosate or triclopyr) may be needed for established infestations. Report sightings to local extension or invasive species authorities.

Taxonomic Profile

Beautiful but destructive, Japanese climbing fern is a plant to recognize and remove—not cultivate.