Akebia quinata
Chocolate vine
Common names: Climbing cucumber, Akebia
Photo: CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source
This description was machine-translated.
Description
Akebia quinata, commonly known as Akebia, is a semi‑evergreen twining shrub native to East Asia. With its five‑parted leaves and aromatic flowers in April, it turns any fence or pergola into a blooming curtain. The small dark violet flowers smell like chocolate, hence the nickname Chocolate Vine. After warm summers, the plant produces sausage‑shaped, violet fruits in autumn with sweet, gelatinous flesh that can be eaten raw; however, the plant usually requires a second clone nearby for good fruit set. Akebia climbs vigorously and can reach several meters, so it is best supported by a sturdy trellis. Note: Only the ripe fruit pulp is edible. Bark, leaves, and especially the seeds contain bitter and irritant compounds and should not be eaten; in gardens with children and pets, it is advisable to ensure that only the fruit interior is sampled.
Care instructions
Provide Akebia with a trellis or fence to climb on; it grows vigorously and needs a strong pruning in late winter during the first years to prevent it from becoming too dense. Water young plants regularly, especially during dry summer weeks; mature specimens are relatively tolerant when placed in sheltered locations. For good fruit production, plant two different clones or seedlings, as self‑pollination is often weak. In harsh conditions, winter protection at the base, such as a layer of leaf litter or straw mulch, helps the roots survive severe frosts. A sunny to partially shaded spot on a warm wall promotes both abundant flowering and fruit ripening in autumn.
Soil & site
Soil pH
Soil type
well-drained, humus-rich, moist, nutrient-rich
Feeding
Medium feeder
Pruning
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