Porcelain-berry

About Porcelain-berry

Porcelain-berry (Ampelopsis brevipedunculata) is a deciduous, perennial, woody vine from Asia that can grow 10 to 15 feet a year.  A relative of our native grapes, porcelain-berry produces distinctive fruits in late summer and early fall that change from lilac or green to bright blue.

The Problem

It invades field and field edges and spreads rapidly. Porcelain-berry climbs on and over native plants, much like oriental bittersweet.  Currently it is mostly found in southeastern Massachusetts and along the coast.  Birds are attracted to the fruit and spread the seeds.

The Solution

Seedlings and small vines can be hand pulled.  Large plants can be controlled by cutting and treating the freshly cut stems with a systemic herbicide.  For large populations, a foliar spray of a systemic herbicide can also be effective.  Several years of treatment will likely be needed to achieve control.  Always read and follow the directions on the label when using herbicide.