Porcelain Berry

Ampelopsis brevipedunculata

For over 100 years, porcelain berry has been used as an ornamental plant in the United States. Its colorful berries are consumed by wildlife, especially birds, thus it has dispersed throughout the eastern states.  It also is dispersed through water and is often found in riparian zones. Like kudzu and other invasive vines, it climbs over native vegetation, shading it from the sun, and, consequentially kills the native plants.  

Porcelain berry is a woody vine distinguished by its berries which are produced in a variety of shades – including purple, blue, green, yellow, and white.  The leaves are serrated and lobed - with between 3 to 5 lobes per leaf. They are arranged alternately along the stem. Pale green flower clusters bloom in midsummer. 

Fact Sheet: Porcelain Berry

James H. Miller, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org

Photo Credit:  North Carolina State University and Chris Moorman