Mile-a-Minute on Block Island

An infestation of mile-a-minute vine (Polygonum perfoliatum) was discovered last month on Block Island, located off the coast of Rhode Island. The initial sighting was in a swamp owned by The Nature Conservancy, in several patches covering more than 400 square meters. A small additional population was also found in the yard of an island resident. The Nature Conservancy and Rhode Island Natural History Survey staff were quick to assess the problem, and have already been out to the sight for a day-long "pulling session" to remove the thorny vines by hand. Given the extent of the invasion, RINHS staff expect that the mile-a-minute, which is an annual plant, has already put out a lot of seeds this season, meaning that RINHS and TNC will be back on the island next year for more pulling.

Massachusetts has two populations of mile-a-minute vine that are currently under eradication. If you think you have seen this plant, please report it using our online form, or call our Plant Pest Hotline at 617-626-1779.