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Climbing Hempvine

Mikania scandens

Last reviewed: August 2026

Climbing Hempvine (Mikania scandens)
Photo: (c) Michael J. Papay, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Michael J. Papay

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Climbing Hempvine as toxic to livestock.

Light

part sun

Water

high

Size

120"–300" H × 36"–120" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 23 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, wasps

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 437 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

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Browse plants for this ecoregion

Edwards PlateauSouthern Texas PlainsTexas Blackland PrairiesEast Central Texas PlainsWestern Gulf Coastal PlainSouth Central PlainsEastern Temperate ForestsPiedmontNortheastern HighlandsNortheastern Coastal ZoneMiddle Atlantic Coastal PlainNorthern PiedmontSoutheastern PlainsRidge and ValleyInterior PlateauMississippi Alluvial PlainMississippi Valley Loess PlainsSouthern Coastal PlainSouthern Florida Coastal PlainAtlantic Coastal Pine Barrens

Climbing hempvine is a fast-growing native vine that can reach 10-25 feet in length. It produces clusters of small white flowers from July through September and thrives in moist, partially shaded areas. This vigorous climber needs sturdy support structures and regular management to prevent it from overwhelming other plants.

In an HOA neighborhood

Climbing Hempvine takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Extremely vigorous growth can appear uncontrolled
  • May overwhelm fences and structures
  • Can look messy without frequent pruning

Wildlife value

The summer flowers attract bees, butterflies, and wasps, providing nectar during the peak growing season. Seeds may also provide food for birds in fall.

Common questions

How much sun does Climbing Hempvine need?
Climbing Hempvine grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Climbing Hempvine bloom?
Climbing Hempvine blooms in July, August, and September.
Where is Climbing Hempvine native?
Climbing Hempvine (Mikania scandens) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 23 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
Is Climbing Hempvine toxic to livestock?
The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Climbing Hempvine as toxic to livestock.
What pollinators does Climbing Hempvine attract?
Climbing Hempvine draws bees, butterflies, and wasps.
Is Climbing Hempvine HOA-friendly?
Climbing Hempvine takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Climbing Hempvine? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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