How to identify Kudzu (Pueraria montana)

How to identify Kudzu (Pueraria montana)

Kudzu, also known as Japanese arrowroot, Gan ge teng, Puerariae lobatae radix, Radix puerariae lobatae, Fen ge, Ge gen, Kudzu bean, Kudzuvine root, Mealy kudzu, Pueraria radix, Puerariae flos, Radix puerariae, Thing-ba, Japanese, Fenge, Kudsu, Kudzubohne, Kuzu, Pueraria

Kudzu is characterized by its semi-woody, expansive vine structure. It features broad, ovate leaflets, usually three per leaf, that can grow up to 4 inches (10 cm) wide. This vigorous climber exhibits purplish, highly fragrant flower clusters, each measuring around 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) across. Its capability for rapid growth allows it to develop extensive root systems and thick, intertwining stems that may reach thicknesses of 4 inches (10 cm).

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Vine

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Kudzu

Purple to reddish-purple flowers, 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide, in clustered arrangement on 7-inch (18 cm) stalks.

Hairy, elongated legume fruit, 1.5-5 inches (3.8-12.7 cm) long, housing up to 10 seeds.

Thick stem, over 10 inches (25 cm) in diameter, densely covered with distinctive yellow hairs.

Medium-sized leaves with pinnate veins, vibrant green color, hairy texture on both surfaces, lobed leaflets.

Vigorous vine plant with broad, ovate leaflets of up to 4 inches (10 cm) wide, capable of rapid growth.

Detailed Traits of Kudzu

Leaf Features

The leaves of kudzu are compound and alternate, featuring a hairy texture on both upper and lower surfaces. Each leaf comprises a long petiole and three leaflets. The lateral leaflets exhibit two lobes, while the terminal leaflet has three lobes. Leaves are medium-sized, typically reaching 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) in length. The veins are prominently displayed, enhancing the texture, and exhibit a pinnate pattern. The overall color of the leaves is a vibrant green, aiding in photosynthesis.

Leaf Arrangement

Alternate

Leaf Margin

Entire

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

The flowers of kudzu are seen from July to September. These blossoms are purple to reddish-purple and emit a pleasant fragrance. Each flower is about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in width and is characterized by its clustered arrangement on a stalk that can grow up to 7 inches (18 cm) long. The flowers, with their striking color and sweet scent, are easily identifiable features of this plant.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stem of kudzu is notable for its considerable thickness, potentially growing up to 10 inches (25 cm) or more in diameter. It has a woody base and is densely covered with yellow hairs, giving it a distinctive texture. The stem’s coverage of yellow hairs and its substantial diameter are key identifying features for recognizing this plant.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of kudzu is a distinctive, hairy legume. It appears elongated and flat, exhibiting a rich brown hue. Its elliptic shape ranges in length from 1.5 to 5 inches (3.8 to 12.7 centimeters) and in width from 0.2 to 0.5 inches (0.5 to 1.3 centimeters). These seedpods emerge after the plant's late summer blooming phase and persist through October to December. Each pod houses up to 10 seeds, nestled within a fuzzy exterior, a key identification characteristic observable during the fall season.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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Kudzu and Their Similar Plants

Kudzu vs. Kudzu: What's The Difference?

Kudzu was naturalized in the United States for erosion control and animal feed--only to grow out of control immediately and eventually become what is known locally as "the scourge of the South." Growing as fast as multiple inches a day, this beautiful, but destructive vine is incredibly tough, almost impossible to eradicate, and kills other plants by covering them and blocking sunlight.

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Key Facts About Kudzu

Attributes of Kudzu

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Vine

Plant Height

20 m to 30 m

Spread

20 m

Leaf Color

Green

Bronze

Brown

Flower Size

2 cm to 2.5 cm

Leaf type

Deciduous

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Scientific Classification of Kudzu

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Legumes, milkworts and allies

Family

Legume

Genus

Kudzu

Species

Kudzu (Pueraria montana)

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Distribution Map of Kudzu

Kudzu is native to Asia, found predominantly in Southeast Asia, East Asia, and parts of the Indian subcontinent. It has been introduced to various regions across the globe, largely in tropical and subtropical zones of different continents including Africa, South America, and parts of Oceania. In its introduced range, kudzu often establishes itself firmly, sometimes becoming invasive.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

Learn More About the Kudzu

A Comprehensive Guide to Kudzu How to Grow and Care for Kudzu