I may have to think twice about this vine? I was planning on growing it in a neglected and isolated spot in my yard that has compacted clay soil.

Perhaps I should clarify. The Alamo Vine isn't quite as bad as kudzu, but almost. It is a rampant self-seeder and will quickly cover a trellis, fence, barn....well, maybe not a barn. In the past I have given seeds to friends, but I always joke that they have to sign a liability release form first. Or maybe it's not a complete joke as some who planted the free seeds now face the same problem I do with trying to eradicate it. Just when I think it's gone, we get a bit of rain and two dozen more plants sprout. So while it's not exactly "the vine that ate the south", it can become a pest. Or as a friend of mine put it, "The only way to get rid of it is to move".
However, perhaps under less hospitable conditions it might be manageable. I'd be curious to hear what others have to say about their experiences with this climbing beauty.

That's pretty scary that you're still pulling up volunteers every time it rains. I guess I should have done more research before starting the seeds? The guy could have sent me a liability form just to give me a heads up. Your experience is making me think twice about it. I'd love to hear other people's experiences too. I wonder if it would slow down in the bad soil I have in my yard? The leaves are so pretty and I read it smells like almonds but I'm wondering if it's worth growing it?

Writing these posts made me realize that I had not checked on the Alamo Vine invasion lately. So I went out to look at the trellis where I grow snapdragon vines.



The snaps were blooming nicely. But WAIT - those are NOT snapdragon leaves, which look like this:



Closer examination confirmed that, you guessed it, the Alamo Vine is back with a vengeance! I spotted blooms and a couple of seed pods. Grrrrr





Then I looked down and noticed all the new seedlings emerging.



And did I mention that the vine seems to grow a foot per day? I will be out bright and early tomorrow morning to do an eradication. Again.

Wow I thought those leaves were to the snapdragon vine!? Now I'm definitely worried about an invasion. Poor snapdragon vine, but at least it's blooming. I already have to deal with wisteria, English ivy, bamboo, and nandina. Don't ask me why I planted all those invasive plants?