Mikania micrantha is one of the top one hundred global invasive pests.
Nicknamed “Mile-a-Minute” because it grows so fast, this destructive invasive species is denoted by a blooming white flower. It is also known as Chinese creeper, climbing hempweed and bittervine.
Be on the lookout for it. The invasive weed can grow one-and-a-half feet per week in optimal conditions. It thrives in Florida’s warm, humid environment, especially in the Redlands area of Homestead, where it was detected for the first time in the continental United States in 2009.
As a rapidly growing climbing vine, it can smother and overwhelm other small plants and even large trees. It pulls you in with its attractive flowers, and then ZAP – it strangles the life out of surrounding plants. Mile-a-minute has the ability to take over disturbed areas in only a few months. It has been documented as a pest in banana, cacao, coconut, oil palm, rubber and rice plantations.
Learn more about this plant and view an informational video here.
If you think you have seen this plant, please call the Helpline, 1-888-397-1517.
Mikania micrantha Positive Finds in Florida Mikania micrantha Pest Alert – DPI
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services - Division of Plant Industry 