Porcelain berry (Ampelopsis brevipedunculata) is an invasive vine. This species can be found in a variety of habitats including forest edges, riverbanks, and woodland openings. It is not widely spread in Oakland County but has been documented in several locations. The vine has white lenticels and has a white interior once cut. The leaves are generally heart shaped and dark green. Flower clusters bloom in mid to late summer and are white. The berries are distinct on this species. They are shiny and can be a variety of colors including white, blue, purple, and pink.
Michigan is home to several native grape species but there are clear distinctions between them and porcelain berry. Native species have shredding bark, and the center of the vine is brown. Additionally, the fruits are green or purple.
Have you seen this species? Report it to us or on the MISIN website or smartphone app! Please include a photo to help with ID verification.
Environmental effects
Not much is known about the environmental threat of porcelain berry but like other invasive species, it can shade out natives. This species is known to cause thick coverage and can climb over other favorable species. Wildlife habitat quality may be decreased when this species is present.
Treatment methods
There are several treatments available to control this species. This includes both chemical and non-chemical methods.
NON-CHEMICAL CONTROL METHODS:
- Hand pulling: the best time to hand pull this species is before the berries are produced in order to prevent another round of seeds being dispersed. If you pull the species with fruit present, be sure to bag the fruit and dispose in a landfill.
- Cutting: when there are large vines present, you can cut the vines as close to the ground as possible. It is important to either treat the vine with an herbicide or plan to recut new growth as it appears.
CHEMICAL CONTROL METHODS
- Foliar spraying: the best time to practice this method is during late summer to early fall. You can spray whatever leaves are within safe reach. Once the plants have regrown it is best to reapply herbicide.
- Cut-stump: the most effective treatment option is to apply herbicide to the cut vine, as laid out above. If fruit is present, you may wish to remove the vines and bag up the plant remains as best as possible.