Akebia x pentaphylla
Akebia x pentaphyllafam. Lardizabalaceae
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Pl. 3062 — Akebia x pentaphylla
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IOverview
Overview
Akebia x pentaphylla, commonly known as the five-leaved akebia or chocolate vine, is a deciduous climbing vine native to Japan. This plant thrives in moist, light to heavy soil and can tolerate various levels of sunlight from full sun to partial shade. It grows up to 9 meters tall and is hardy in zones 4-8. Known for its edible fruit, the vine produces sweet, chocolate-flavored berries that are a delightful treat. One distinctive feature of Akebia x pentaphylla is its large, heart-shaped leaves with five leaflets each, which sets it apart from other vines.
Quick answers
What is Akebia x pentaphylla?
Akebia x pentaphylla, commonly known as the five-leaved akebia or chocolate vine, is a deciduous climbing vine native to Japan. This plant thrives in moist, light to heavy soil and can tolerate various levels of sunlight from full sun to partial shade.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Akebia x pentaphylla thrives in partial sun to full shade and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-8 and can grow up to 9 meters tall as a vine. For optimal growth, ensure the plant receives adequate moisture and well-draining soil conditions. Propagate through cuttings or division. The fruit of this plant is edible.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Habit
Vine
Mature size
9.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Akebia x pentaphylla for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Skip in a sunny to partially shaded spot, and you'll have a rewarding experience.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip plant, garden gloves, trowel, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or early fall when the weather is mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with moist, well-draining soil. Amend heavy clay or sandy soils with compost.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip from a nursery pot to your garden bed or plant directly in the ground.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide support like a trellis and prune lightly after flowering to shape the plant. Water during dry spells.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts to maintain size and shape. Remove any dead or weak branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, not providing support, neglecting pruning, planting in too much shade, using harsh chemicals.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: Tea
Other uses:Weaving material
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 1 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Japan
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 3062f423-aa59-49db-b380-6f282d6f3554
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