Akebia quinata
chocolate vine
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.
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.
How to care for Akebia quinata:
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.
To plant Akebia quinata (chocolate vine), choose a sunny spot and well-draining, fertile soil. This vigorous climber benefits from support, like a trellis, pergola, or wall, as it can grow quickly and cover large areas.
Water regularly during establishment, though once mature, it’s relatively drought-tolerant. In colder areas, a sheltered location can help protect it from frost damage. Prune as needed after flowering to control growth and shape.
To plant Akebia quinata (chocolate vine), choose a sunny spot and well-draining, fertile soil. This vigorous climber benefits from support, like a trellis, pergola, or wall, as it can grow quickly and cover large areas.
Water regularly during establishment, though once mature, it’s relatively drought-tolerant. In colder areas, a sheltered location can help protect it from frost damage. Prune as needed after flowering to control growth and shape.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
10m
Eventual spread:
2m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
-
This climber is semi-evergreen, so it can lose some of its leaves in winter. In colder regions or more exposed gardens, it may lose them all, but then fresh new foliage appears again in spring.
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