Invasive vines strangle trees. But in Linnean Park, someone has cut native vines that do no harm.

One or more individuals cut down multiple mature native grape vines in Linnean Park, perhaps with the intention of protecting the trees the vines inhabited. These vines, in fact, are not harmful to their host trees, and are beneficial for wildlife.

Often trees are invaded by English ivy, twining porcelainberry or oriental bittersweet. The non-native vines compete for photosynthesis advantage and are harmful and potentially terminal for the host. Native grape vines, on the other hand, only “hitch a ride” on their host. Their relationship with trees is “commensalistic,” meaning one organism uses another to get a better position in the environment but neither organism is harmed.

One of the cut grape vines. Mature native grape vines have a linear bark characteristic, as if a cat scratched the bark surface.

Migrating birds depend on grapes as a valuable food source to sustain energy for long flights. Resident birds seek shelter within the vines to withstand cold winter temperatures.

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The vines were not cut recently. Three Linnean Park stewards – Linnean Park Partnership co-founders John Burwell and Marlene Berlin, and Erica Carlsson, an environmental protection specialist at District Department of Energy & Environment – noticed them during a walk through Linnean Park in February.

DOEE’s Erica Carlson, John Burwell, and a native grapevine. (photo by Marlene Berlin)

Cutting, pruning or removing any plants or trees throughout the park is prohibited except by certified and special permit holders, or under their direct, in-person supervision. Burwell is one of those certified experts. He has led many invasive removal and other park care events, and is planning more. Those interested in volunteering in Linnean Park should contact him at pinehurstprojectdc@gmail.com.