Kudzu

Kudzu is a group of climbing, coiling, and trailing perennial vines native to much of East Asia, Southeast Asia, and some Pacific islands. The name is derived from the Japanese name for the plants, kuzu (クズ or 葛), which was written "kudzu" in historical romanizations. Where these plants are naturalized, they can be invasive and are considered noxious weeds. The plant climbs over trees or shrubs and grows so rapidly that it kills them by heavy shading. The plant is edible, but often sprayed with herbicides.

Taxonomy

Kudzu belongs to the pea family, Fabaceae. It comprises 17 species of plants, which are commonly referred to as kudzu. The genus was first described by the French botanist, Augustin Pyramus de Candolle in 1825. The name "Pueraria" is derived from the Swiss Professor M. N. Puerari.

Description

Kudzu vines are deciduous, high-climbing, coiling, and trailing. They can reach lengths of up to 20 m. The leaves are alternate and compound, with large and broad leaflets. The flowers are purple, highly fragrant, and occur in long racemes. The fruit is a flat, brown, hairy pod, with 10 seeds.

Distribution and habitat

Kudzu is native to East Asia, Southeast Asia, and some Pacific islands. It has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America, where it has become an invasive species.

Uses

Kudzu has been used for centuries in East Asia for its medicinal properties. It is also used in traditional Chinese medicine. The roots contain starch, which can be used in cooking. The leaves and vines can be used for basketry.

Invasive species

In areas where kudzu has been introduced, it can become a serious invasive species. It grows rapidly, covering other plants and trees and killing them by heavy shading. Control methods include physical removal, use of herbicides, and biological control.

See also

• Invasive species
• Traditional Chinese medicine
• Fabaceae

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