Abrus precatorius (Rosary Pea)

Native to tropical and subtropical Africa and Asia, extending to northern and eastern Australia, this perennial woody vine climbs by twining around other vegetation. Small white to pink flowers grow in clusters beside the leaves. Its pods split open to expose glossy red seeds with black bases, traditionally used in beadwork and rosaries. The seeds contain abrin and can cause fatal poisoning, especially when chewed or damaged. A deep taproot makes established plants difficult to remove. It is invasive in Florida, where it spreads into pine forests and hardwood hammocks, including threatened pine rockland habitats. Photographed in Florida.