The Same Invasive

Porcelain-berry, intricate leaves, October 2015 (photo by Kate St. John)

There are many varieties of porcelain-berry (Ampelopsis brevipedunculata) in the Pittsburgh area.  Most have maple-shaped leaves (below), but I occasionally find the intricate leaves showcased above.

Porcelain-berry, maple-shaped leaves, October 2015 (photo by Kate St. John)

No matter the variety, you can identify them in October by their porcelain-like berries.

Porcelain berry (photo by Jonathan Nadle)

Unfortunately, Ampelopsis is invasive. When you see Pittsburgh hillsides engulfed like this, it’s probably porcelain-berry.  This hill is along Pocusset in Schenley Park.

Porcelain-berry drapes a hillside in Schenley Park, September 2013 (photo by Kate St. John)

(photo of berries by Jonathan Nadle, all other photos by Kate St. John)

2 thoughts on “The Same Invasive

  1. Aww Kate you are always so informative. I have often wondered what that Grape-like vine was called. We joked and called it Kudzu altho I know it doesn’t grow this far north. Thanks for sharing your knowledge. I guess we are never too old to learn !

  2. I have noticed two things porcelain-berry. One, it usually stems back down to one main rooted stalk so if you can find the main stem you can cut it and kill the trailing vines above easily. Two, the rooted portions are ruthlessly able to regenerate, but if you keep on top of them or dig them out really well you can at least keep it in check if it turns up in your yard.

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