Jil Swearingen, NPS

Fiveleaf Akebia
Akebia quinata

Fiveleaf akebia, or chocolate vine, is an unusual and attractive exotic vine in the Lardizabala family (Lardizabalaceae) that was imported from Asia around 1845 for ornamental purposes. A deciduous, perennial vine, it occurs in about twenty states in the eastern United States, from Louisiana to Massachusetts and west to Michigan. Where it has become established, it can grow rapidly, forming an impenetrable groundcover, climbing trees and shrubs and smothering everything in its path. Akebia is spread by seed and by vegetative means.

Prevention and Control
Young plants can be pulled by hand. Cutting can be done any time of year and vines should be cut to the ground. Akebia vines may also be dug up, removing as much of the roots as possible. For large infestations, apply a systemic herbicide.

Native Alternatives
pipevine (Aristolochia macrophylla), cross vine (Bignonia capreolata), trumpet creeper (Campsis radicans), trumpet honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens)

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Publication by USFWS BayScapes Conservation Landscaping Program
http://www.nps.gov/plants/alien/pubs/midatlantic/akqu.htm
Last updated: 7 October 2004