Merremia: The Climbing Vine You Should Think Twice About
When you’re looking for a fast-growing vine to cover that unsightly fence or create a natural privacy screen, Merremia peltata (commonly known simply as merremia) might seem like an appealing choice. This vigorous climbing plant produces large, heart-shaped leaves and delicate white trumpet flowers that can transform a space quickly. However, before you rush to plant this Pacific Island native, there’s something important you need to know.
What is Merremia?
Merremia is a perennial climbing vine that belongs to the morning glory family. This twining plant can have woody or herbaceous stems that grow rapidly, allowing it to scale trees, fences, and structures with impressive speed. The plant produces distinctive heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 8 inches across, creating dense coverage wherever it grows.
The vine produces attractive white, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom throughout much of the year in suitable climates. While these flowers do attract butterflies and other pollinators, the plant’s aggressive growth habit has earned it a troubling reputation.
Where Does Merremia Grow?
Merremia peltata is native to the Pacific Basin region, with its exact native range being somewhat debated among botanists. Today, you can find it growing in Hawaii, Guam, and Palau, though its status in these locations is complicated.
The Problem with Merremia
Here’s where things get concerning: merremia is considered a highly invasive species in many areas where it grows, including parts of Hawaii. This vine doesn’t just grow fast – it grows aggressively, often smothering native plants and disrupting local ecosystems. Its rapid growth rate and ability to climb high into forest canopies make it particularly destructive to native vegetation.
In Hawaii, merremia has become such a problem that it’s actively managed as an invasive species. The vine can completely engulf native trees and shrubs, blocking sunlight and eventually killing the plants beneath it.
Growing Conditions and Care
While we don’t recommend planting merremia, understanding its growing preferences can help you identify and manage it if it appears on your property:
- Climate: Thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9-11
- Light: Grows in full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Adapts to various soil types but prefers well-draining conditions
- Water: Needs regular watering but is somewhat drought tolerant once established
- Growth rate: Extremely fast-growing, which contributes to its invasive nature
Better Alternatives for Your Garden
Instead of risking the ecological problems that come with merremia, consider these native climbing alternatives that can provide similar coverage without the environmental concerns:
- Native morning glories specific to your region
- Native honeysuckle species (avoid non-native honeysuckles which can also be invasive)
- Regional native climbing roses
- Native grape vines
What to Do If You Have Merremia
If you discover merremia growing on your property, the best course of action is careful removal. The vine can be persistent, often regrowing from root fragments, so complete removal may take several attempts. Always dispose of plant material responsibly – never compost invasive species, as this can spread seeds and plant fragments to new areas.
Contact your local extension office or native plant society for guidance on the best removal methods for your area and recommendations for native alternatives that will provide the coverage you’re looking for without the ecological risks.
The Bottom Line
While merremia might seem like an easy solution for quick ground coverage or screening, its invasive nature makes it a poor choice for responsible gardening. By choosing native alternatives instead, you can create beautiful, fast-growing coverage that supports local wildlife and ecosystems rather than threatening them. Your garden – and your local environment – will thank you for making the more sustainable choice.
