How to Grow and Care for Cayratia

Native to subtropical Australia and Asia, Cayratia japonica has been introduced to the United States, where it is considered invasive. Cayratia japonica is a vine that tends to climb and block the light for other plants, causing significant environmental damage. During forest fires, bushkiller acts as a 'ladder,' allowing the fire to climb to tree canopies and cause more damage.

The three-leaved wild vine is well-named since it grows on long vines in distinctive three-leaf clusters. The Latin name Cayratia trifolia also refers to this growth pattern. It is a climbing tropical vine that thrives in open forest and vine thickets. The underside of the plant's leaves is covered in small hairs, many of which are hooked.

Cayratia corniculata is a climbing or trailing vine distinguished by its small, reddish clustered berries and delicate green foliage. Bearing heart-shaped leaves that often exhibit tendrils, cayratia corniculata thrives in tropical climates, relying on other plants for support. This resilient plant adapts well to varied light conditions, contributing to its widespread presence in the regions it populates.

Slender grape is a climbing or sprawling vine adorned with compound leaves, usually tri-foliate, resembling that of grapes in shape. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers, which may develop into fleshy, purple to black berries. Thriving in moist habitats, its growth can be vigorous, covering ground and climbing over other vegetation with its slender, twining stems.