Mile-A-Minute Vine Invades Connecticut

Fall is the ideal time to identify persicaria perfoliata — also known as “mile-a-minute” vine — growing on your property.

The invasive species, which was first found in Fairfield County in 1997, came here from Asia, and is known for choking off native plants and decimating large swaths of indigenous vegetation with its rapid growth.

The state Department of Energy and Environmental Conservation is asking residents to be on the lookout for this nuisance — which easiest to spot in the fall, as its retains its triangular shaped, dark green leaves longer than other plants and bushes.

Residents who discover mile-a-minute vine are urged to report it online or by calling Donna Ellis at University of Connecticut at 860-486-6448.

Scientists at the state DEEP and UConn have been collaborating on developing methods for controlling the vine.

"Invasive plants are a significant threat to Connecticut’s natural resources, and mile-a-minute is potentially one of the worst. Early detection and rapid response are essential if we are to keep these invaders at bay," said Bill Hyatt, chief of DEEP’s Bureau of Natural Resources, in a statement.

"If you find mile-a-minute, especially if it is growing on your own property, make sure to report it before pulling it up," added Donna Ellis, Senior Extension Educator at UConn. "We may need to collect additional information about the plants before they are removed."

UConn and DEEP scientists reportedly implemented control measures along the Shetucket River, in the town of Sprague, this past summer. What’s more, scientists from UConn and the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station are trying to reduce mile-a-minute at a number of sites by releasing insects that feed exclusively on the plant.

Mile-a-minute vine has three identifying traits: triangular leaves with three sides and no lobes; small but sharp barbs that curve down along the stem; and small saucer-shaped leaves found at branching points along the stem.

According to the CT Mile A Minute Vine website, the species has been found in 20 Connecticut towns to date. Most of those towns are in the southwest quadrant of the state, however it has been found as far north as Simsbury and as far east as Stonington.