Chocolate Vine
Akebia quinata
Also known as
Akebia, Five-Leaf, Five-Leaf Akebia
Akebia quinata by Alpsdake (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Full Sun
Moderate care
Moderate watering
Frost Hardy
H6
RHS hardiness
-20°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
12m | Max | 12m |
8m | Min | 8m |
10 years to reach maturity
Fruiting
spring
summer
autumn
winter
Generally not harvested.
More images of Chocolate Vine
Chocolate Vine Overview
Akebia quinata is a vigorous semi-evergreen climber from the Lardizabalaceae family. It produces spicy vanilla-scented, cup-shaped, creamy white to red-purple flowers with purple centres in spring. Commonly known by the names Chocolate Vine, leaves are arranged in a palm-shape, with oblong, notched leaflets and flowers may be followed by large, sausage-shaped fruits. The fruits can measure up to 10cm in length. Grow this hardy plant in full sun to partial shade, in moist, well-draining soil for optimal growth.
Common problems with Chocolate Vine
Generally pest & disease free
How to propagate Chocolate Vine
Cuttings
Layering
Seed
Soak seeds in water and let stand 24 hours. Cold stratify by sealing seeds in a zip loc bag, along with a handful of moist vermiculite. Refrigerate 30-60 days. Sow 3/4 inch deep in soil mix of sand and loam. Likes full sun - keep lightly moist - not wet. Germination usually occurs within 2-3 weeks.
Special features of Chocolate Vine
Attractive flowers
Attractive fruits
Attractive leaves
Other uses of Chocolate Vine
Plant in wall side borders where it can grow away or in borders with a trellis or tree it can climb up or through.