Invasive Weeds in Georgia

Evans, C.W., C.T. Bargeron, D.J. Moorhead & G.K. Douce. 2005. The Bugwood Network, The University of Georgia.

Kudzu

Pueraria montana (Lour.) Merr.

Kudzu is a climbing deciduous vine capable of reaching lengths of over 100 feet. The stems can grow to 4 inches in diameter and the large semi-woody roots can reach depths of 3 to 16 feet. Kudzu is easily identified by its usual growth form, a large dense mat of vines, often totally covering other vegetation, structures, or land. Kudzu has three-parted leaves with large broad leaflets, up to 4 inches wide. Purple flowers with yellow centers occur is small clusters. Flowering occurs in June and July.

Kudzu is native to Asia and was first introduced into America in 1876 at the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition. It was widely planted throughout the eastern United States in an attempt to control erosion. Currently it is found throughout most of the southeastern states and is widespread throughout Georgia.

Kudzu’s preferred habitat is open, disturbed areas such as roads, rights-of-way, forest edges, and old fields. It is an aggressive invader capable of growing over 1 foot a day in prime conditions. Kudzu often grows over, smothers, and kills all other vegetation including trees.

Recommended herbicides for control:
Cut stems – Garlon 4 or glyphosate
Basal spray – Garlon 4 with oil and penetrant
Foliar spray – Tordon 101, Tordon K, Escort, or Transline

Photo by Chris Evans, UGA