Q.Need Help Identifying an Unusual Vine Growing in Illinois
Our customer brought in a vine w/leaves and a stem with a 2″ diameter cluster of 1/8′ – 1/4″ dark, dark blue berries! The berry cluster is the shape of a perfect ball. . . bigger than a golf ball! Smaller than a tennis ball! Leaves are medium or kelly green color, not a deep green without any nodules in leaves just a simple shape. This customer says it grows about or at least an INCH A NIGHT!! I can provide pictures. We live in Chillicothe, Illinois – Zone 5. . . getting closer to Zone 6. Please help us identify and Thank You for your time.
Juliet
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
It sounds like a beautyberry, though there are a few varieties it could be. They are known for growing quickly and can survive up to zone 6. With the mild winter last year and you being located nearish to zone 6, it is possible that a seed was dropped by a bird and was able to establish in your area.
