Contents
Description
Akebia quinata, commonly known as chocolate vine or five-leaf akebia, is a deciduous, twining vine that is native to East Asia. It is a member of the Lardizabalaceae family and is highly valued for its beautiful foliage and fragrant flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Lardizabalaceae |
| Genus | Akebia |
Appearance
The Akebia quinata plant has unique foliage that is a deep green color with five oval-shaped leaflets on each stem. The leaves are approximately 2-3 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. In early spring, the plant produces small, fragrant flowers that are about 1 inch in diameter and are purplish-brown in color. The flowers give way to edible fruit that is about 3-4 inches long and has a sweet taste.
Care Guide
Water: Akebia quinata requires regular watering, especially during the summer months. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as they can encourage leaf growth at the expense of flowers and fruit.
Soil: Akebia quinata grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers a slightly acidic soil pH of 5.5-6.5.
Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full sun. In hotter climates, it may need protection from intense afternoon sun.
Hardiness Zones: Akebia quinata is winter hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Akebia quinata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot if grown in poorly-drained soil or in humid conditions.
Habitat
Akebia quinata is native to East Asia, specifically China, Japan, and Korea. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, thickets, and along stream banks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Akebia quinata be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Akebia quinata can be grown in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Is Akebia quinata a fast-growing plant?
A: Yes, Akebia quinata is a fast-growing plant and can reach up to 20 feet in length in ideal growing conditions.
Q: Can Akebia quinata be grown as a groundcover?
A: Yes, Akebia quinata can be trained to grow along the ground and can make an attractive groundcover.
Q: Is Akebia quinata deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Akebia quinata is generally deer-resistant due to its thorny stems and bitter-tasting foliage.
Related Plants
- Akebia trifoliata
- Akebia longeracemosa
- Akebia quinata var. alba
- Akebia quinata var. japonica
References
- RHS Gardening. (n.d.). Akebia quinata. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/11120/Akebia-quinata/Details
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Akebia quinata. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b563
- Gardenia.net. (n.d.). Akebia quinata (Chocolate Vine). Retrieved from https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/akebia-quinata-chocolate-vine
