It originated in Eastern Africa, but it's been spreading to all parts of the world causing damage to native plants. Some of the places it has invaded include: Australia, Japan, Singapore, Costa Rica, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Paraguay and Hawaii.
The main problem with Ojo de Poeta is that it can adapt to many environments. When the seeds are introduced to a new place, they are able to adjust to different elevations, temperatures and soils. They are even able to grow in the shade, which is not common with a lot of flowers. The vines have extensive root systems, so unless you pull out the entire root, they're able to grow back. Additionally, the plant grows fast, lives a long time and when the seed pods dry and pop, they can throw the seeds up to 30 feet away! Due to these factors, it is extremely difficult to control this plant.
We are not worried about Ojo de Poeta, we are worried about what it is doing to other species! People are trying to get rid of these plants manually, by pulling them out, because using pesticides can harm the native species and contaminate the water supply. However, because the plants spread and grow so quickly, this seems to be a never-ending task.
