Rosary pea (Abrus precatorius) is a slender, high-climbing, twining or trailing woody vine with slender herbaceous branches. It is well known for its distinctive red and black, highly toxic seeds, that are commonly used for making jewelry for tourists. A. precatorius is found in tropical and subtropical areas worldwide. It has fern-like elliptical leaflets that grow in pairs along the leaf stalk, and white to lilac-pink flowers that bloom in the summer. A. precatorius produces flat brown seedpods with oval seeds which vary in color from black, red, orange or white with a black spot, giving the plant another common name of crab's eyes.
Toxic components A. precatorius contains abrin, a highly toxic compound that is contained within the hard, water-impermeable coat of the seeds.
MECHANICAL: Hand-pulling and removal of entire plants, particularly the roots, is practical for small infestations. Triclopyr is effective as a cut-stump treatment on large woody vines immediately after the vines are cut down.
CHEMICAL: Triclopyr amine or glyphosate can be applied to the foliage at 3-5% or 1-3%, respectively. Timing of application is critical to effectiveness; with applications in the fall prior to seed set being the most effective.
FIRE CONTROL: It's roots grow very deeply onto the ground and are very difficult to remove. Fire encourages the growth of rosary pea.
