Stinkvine
Paederia foetida
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
120"–360" H × 60"–180" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
NC
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Stinkvine is an aggressive climbing vine that can reach 30 feet in height and spread rapidly across large areas. This plant produces small flowers in summer but is notorious for its unpleasant odor when crushed or disturbed. It requires regular pruning to prevent it from overwhelming other plants and structures.
In an HOA neighborhood
Stinkvine 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.
- Aggressive growth can look uncontrolled
- Unpleasant odor when disturbed
- Can overwhelm nearby plants
Wildlife value
The summer flowers attract bees and beetles during its July through September bloom period.
Common questions
- How much sun does Stinkvine need?
- Stinkvine grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Stinkvine bloom?
- Stinkvine blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Stinkvine native?
- Stinkvine (Paederia foetida) is native to NC, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Stinkvine attract?
- Stinkvine draws bees and beetles.
- Is Stinkvine HOA-friendly?
- Stinkvine 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 USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Stinkvine? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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