Family: Convolvulaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Cypress vine (Ipomoea quamoclit) is a fast-growing, twining vine native to tropical regions of the Americas. It is easily recognized by its delicate, feathery (fern-like) leaves and small, star-shaped flowers that are typically bright red, though pink and white forms also occur. This species is widely cultivated as an ornamental for fences, trellises, and garden arches due to its rapid growth, attractive foliage, and ability to draw pollinators such as hummingbirds. It is often planted to create quick privacy screens or add vertical interest in tropical and subtropical gardens.

Risks & Threats:
Although cypress vine is not currently known to be naturalized in the Hawaiian Islands, it possesses several traits that raise concern. It grows quickly, produces abundant seeds, and can readily spread beyond cultivation. In suitable climates, it may form dense tangles that smother surrounding vegetation, potentially displacing native plants and altering habitats. Its climbing habit allows it to overtop shrubs and small trees, reducing light availability and stressing native species. Because of these risks, introduction and planting should be approached with caution. To help protect Hawaii’s unique ecosystems, it is recommended to choose a low-risk or native alternative instead.

High Risk Traits:

• Broad climate suitability (USDA Zones 6–11)
  
• Naturalized across U.S., Africa, India, Pacific
  
• Weed of gardens, roadsides, disturbed areas
  
• Agricultural weed in corn and soybean
  
• Congeneric weeds are invasive/noxious
  
• Unpalatable to grazers (high alkaloids)
  
• Toxic to animals (seeds and all parts)
  
• Climbing, smothering growth habit
  
• Produces abundant, viable seed
  
• Highly self-compatible
  
• Flowers in <30 days (short generation time)
  
• Intentionally spread as ornamental
  
• Seeds likely water-dispersed
  
• Herbicide control requires specific or repeat applications

Low Risk Traits:

• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• No allelopathy or parasitism
  
• No serious pests or diseases
  
• No fire hazard (moist habitats)
  
• Not shade tolerant
  
• Narrow soil pH preference (neutral)
  
• No unintentional dispersal (large seeds, no attachment)
  
• Not a produce contaminant
  
• No wind, bird, or external animal dispersal
  
• Low seed production (4 seeds per fruit)
  
• Controlled by some herbicides