Main image above: Chayote fruit up close. Photo: by Daniel Dan, Pexels.
How much do you know about invasive species? Would you be able to identify one in your surroundings? Many gardeners and nature lovers answer ‘no’ to this question, so we launched a feature showcasing some of the listed invasive species in South Africa as part of our responsible gardening mission. Join us to learn more about these species and why they are invasive in South Africa. Our second feature looks at the moth catcher vine (Araujia sericifera), often confused with the edible shu shu (chayote) pumpkin variety by uninformed gardeners.
As an avid gardener and nature enthusiast, I have noticed a concerning trend – the rampant confusion between shu shu, the beloved edible chayote pumpkin variety, and the highly invasive moth catcher vine. This misidentification is problematic not only because it is detrimental to the ecosystem, but also because the moth catcher vine is a poisonous plant.
I found this information while researching the moth catcher vine. The common names, “moth catcher”, “moth plant”, and “cruel vine” originate from its reputation for killing moths and bees within the flowers by accidentally trapping them. Some do escape, but others are not as lucky.
The moth catcher vine has been spreading across much of South Africa. This fast-growing, woody vine can quickly overtake native plants, choking out valuable resources and disrupting the delicate balance of local ecosystems. It is also poisonous as mentioned earlier. In contrast, shu shu, chayote, mirliton or choko is an edible plant in the gourd family. It is versatile and nutritious and you can eat it, unlike the poisonous moth catcher vine.
Why does the moth catcher vine thrive?
Each moth catcher vine fruit pod contains approximately 400 seeds, so one can imagine the devastation if only a small percentage of seeds per pod germinates. Each plant can make numerous fruit pods. Wind, and sometimes water spread the fluffy seeds when the dry pods burst open. They form a transient seed bank within the soil. These emerge rapidly and quickly, causing even more problems in the environment as new plants establish themselves in the surroundings.
Why should we eradicate the moth catcher vine?
By educating ourselves on the telltale signs of the moth catcher vine, we can actively stop it from spreading further and safeguard the integrity of our local ecosystems. The seeds are toxic. There have even been reports of death in poultry and cattle upon eating them, although such incidents are uncommon.
How do you get rid of the moth catcher vine?
Moth catcher vine is difficult to eradicate, so it is best to stay on top of the problem when you come across it. Plant regrowth is very common after chemical or mechanical clearing, which is often laborious and hazardous due to the plant’s secretion of toxic, milky latex via its stems, leaves, and fruits, which causes severe skin and eye irritation. Once the plant establishes itself properly, infestations become very difficult to control. The best method to get rid of the moth catcher vine is to remove and burn it to prevent seeds from dispersing.
Moth catcher vine – a listed invasive species
The moth catcher vine is originally from South America and planted as an ornamental. It is a problem specifically in Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape, Free State, Gauteng and Mpumalanga. It is a Category 1 NEMBA – Category 1b invasive species in South Africa. This means:
Category 1b: These are established invasive species that must be controlled and, wherever possible, removed and destroyed. Any trade or planting is strictly prohibited, and landowners must control Category 1b plants and animals on their properties. A species management plan should be drafted for large properties.
If you are still unsure about the identification, you can use our checklist below.
Leaves
Chayote leaves compare well to pumpkin leaves (left photo). They are large and more rounded. Moth catcher vine leaves are pointed, dark green and smooth above and pale green or whitish below with short, dense hairs. If you compare the photo below (right), the leaves are thinner.
Fruit
The edible chayote is shiny green with slightly rough skin and tiny spikes on the fruit (bottom left and middle). The moth catcher vine fruit (picture bottom right) is dull green without any sheen. Moth catcher vine displays a more elongated, tubular shape and a distinctly fuzzy, hairy texture.
Flowers
Chayote flowers are yellow. Moth catcher vine flowers come in different colours, ranging from white or cream to pale pink. Flowers appear from November to April.
Now that you have the guidelines to differentiate between the chayote and moth catcher vine, I encourage you to take a closer look at the plants in your backyard and surroundings and share this knowledge with others. Together, we can eradicate the invaders and protect our valuable natural vegetation for future generations.
Want to read more of our organic gardening content, including more on invasive species? Look at our organic gardening section.
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