Kudzu (Pueraria lobata) is an invasive vine that was introduced to the U.S. from Japan and distributed throughout the South for erosion control. Unfortunately, it quickly became a problem because of its rapid growth. “The Vine that ate the South” is no longer just a southern problem either. Kudzu sites have been found in Indiana counties bordering Michigan, and some sites have been here for decades and survived numerous cold winters. Kudzu was reported in Ontario, Canada in 2009.
Kudzu can cause serious damage to forests. It also can harbor soybean pests and diseases such as soybean rust and the bean plataspid (kudzu bug).
We are attempting to identify and speak with landowners that have kudzu on their property or are adjacent to infested areas. The DNR Division of Entomology & Plant Pathology is working with landowners to reduce kudzu on properties to a level that can be managed by the average person. To report a kudzu site, call 1-866-NOEXOTIC or email DEPP@dnr.IN.gov.
With this tool you can find reported locations of kudzu in Indiana. The points shown are collected from DNR annual surveys and from the DNR Division of Entomology and Plant Pathology field staff. Field inspections are conducted by DNR specialists to confirm the presence of kudzu at the marked location. The map will be updated as new locations are identified. To learn more about a reported location, click on the dot.
