Lygodium japonicum

The Japanese climbing fern is a terrestrial, herbaceous perennial climber in the fan-fern family (Schizaeaceae). Its origins are Japan, tropical Asia and Australia. The species epithet is Latin for “Japanese.”

The plant will grow in both sun and shade in both disturbed and undisturbed areas. It likes loamy soil with good drainage. It grows in moist habitats but can also be found in dry pine flatlands. Control is difficult and it will quickly grow back after a burn so can not be controlled by fire. Herbicides have had some effect.

It can climb to 90 feet covering shrubs and trees. The root system is rhizomatous and forms a dense mat up to 10 feet deep. The spores form along the margins of the lacy fronds and are dispersed by the wind. It is evergreen in tropical areas and deciduous in areas with frost. 

This species is NOT recommended for landscape or garden use. With warming winters in NC, this species may become a significant threat to native ecosystems.

Quick ID Hints:

• Climber with fern leaves
• Fronds have elongated pinnules and twining rachis
• Sori borne on finger-like lobes of pinnules

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems:  No known diseases or pest issues, but this fern is itself a problem. It can grow quickly to smother trees. It also creates mats over the ground preventing seed germination. Japanese climbing fern is listed as invasive by the North Carolina Invasive Plant Council and the South Carolina Exotic Pest Plant Council. It is considered invasive in several southern states and a noxious weed in Florida. See alternatives to the left.

VIDEO Created by NC State Extension's Homegrown series featuring Mark Weathington, Director of JC Raulston Arboretum.