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There's a reason one of the newest invasive weeds in the state is commonly called "Mile-A-Minute."

The spiny vine, distinguished by its triangular leaves, grows at a rate of 6 inches per day and smothers any native vegetation that gets in its way of attaining a final length of about 20 feet, the state Division of Fisheries and Wildlife says.

The Mile-A-Minute vine (Persicara perfoliata), also known as Devil's Tear-thumb, is the latest that gardeners should be on the look out for, according to the agency.

It stems from Asia, was accidentally imported and became established in Pennsylvania by the 1930s, the agency says.

The vine has crept into New England over the past decade, spreading in southwestern Connecticut and on Block Island in Rhode Island. Most recently, infestations have been found in Falmouth and Milton. The vine tolerates various soil types and produces abundant bird-dispersed blue fruits with seeds that can grow after being buried for up to seven years.

Blue and green berries, each containing one seed, may be present after mid-July.

While control efforts are underway, the weed continues to go wild.

MassWildlife Botanist Bryan Connolly said that while the leaves of the plant are among its most obvious identifiable aspects, it also has a noticeable circular leaf-like bract that surrounds the stem at the base of every leaf.

The vine is slender and covered with small, curved spines.

People are asked to take detailed notes of the location and close-up photos of the plant if they see it.

Knowing where any new infestations are is the first step to controlling the vine's spread, Connolly said.

He is also asking that people report any such findings to him by e-mail at bryan.a.connolly@state.ma.us, or by calling him at 508-389-6344.

Notes and photos can also be mailed to: Mile-A-Minute Report, MassWildlife Field Headquarters, 1 Rabbit Hill Road, Westborough, MA, 01581.