How to identify and kill climbing weed?

Question

Hi all,

It's been years that I have this weed in my garden that will entangle with other plants. I keep cutting them and pull them out of the ground when I can (they are rooted very firmly and it's not that easy to pull out). But they keep coming back.

Can someone please identify what it is called and what's the best way to get rid of it once and forever. Thank you.

MitchellMc · Accepted Answer

Hi @otnimus1,

It looks very similar to Glycine (Neonotonia wightii), a climbing plant in the soybean family that is listed as an environmental weed in both QLD and NSW because it aggressively smothers other plants. It’s difficult to remove due to its deep, strong root system, which is why it keeps resprouting even after you cut or pull it. The most effective way to control it is to cut the vine as close to the ground as possible and immediately paint the freshly cut stem with a concentrated glyphosate product (such as Roundup), which allows the herbicide to travel into the roots.

If you do use glyphosate, make sure to wear gloves, eye protection, and long sleeves, and avoid contact with your desirable plants. This cut‑and‑paint method is usually the best approach for persistent climbers like this, and should help prevent it returning. If it’s not Glycine, it’s likely a similar legume‑type vine, and the same method will still work.

Here's a helpful step-by-step guide: How to stop a tree regrowing.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

otnimus1 · Accepted Answer

Thank you @MitchellMc … you are very helpful as always.

I will try to do what you suggested. Thanks again and have a great weekend.