Akebia quinata
chocolate vine


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A very pretty semi-evergreen climber, with beautiful maroon-chocolate flowers that have a spicy fragrance with just a hint of vanilla. Appearing in spring, they stand out against the bright green, three-lobed leaves, which have a purple tinge in winter. Akebia quinata is excellent for training against a wall or over a pergola, and in warmer years, this chocolate vine can produce large sausage-shaped fruits - if you have two plants of the same species that can cross-pollinate.
To avoid dry conditions, and to ensure good soil contact around the rootball, we advise planting climbers at least 30cm (12in), and preferably 45-60cm (18-24in) away from the base of a wall or fence. An even larger distance should be maintained when planting climbers beside an existing tree or shrub.
Full sun
Average
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Fully hardy
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