Scrambling Lily
Geitonoplesium cymosum
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Pl. 58A5 — Geitonoplesium cymosum
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IOverview
Overview
The Scrambling Lily, Geitonoplesium cymosum, is a perennial plant native to the Bismarck Archipelago and other Pacific islands including Fiji, Lesser Sunda Islands, Maluku, New Caledonia, New Guinea, New South Wales, Norfolk Island, Queensland, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu. Known for its edible leaves and shoots, this plant thrives in moist conditions with a preference for light to partial shade. It can grow up to 4 meters tall and is adaptable to various soil types—light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay)—making it a versatile addition to gardens. Its distinctive feature lies in its sprawling growth habit, allowing it to spread across the ground like a vine.
Quick answers
What is Scrambling Lily?
The Scrambling Lily, Geitonoplesium cymosum, is a perennial plant native to the Bismarck Archipelago and other Pacific islands including Fiji, Lesser Sunda Islands, Maluku, New Caledonia, New Guinea, New South Wales, Norfolk Island, Queensland, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Scrambling Lily thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 8-11 and grows as a perennial, reaching heights of up to 4 meters. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently damp but avoid overwatering. Propagate through shoots for best results. Harvest leaves and shoots for culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
4.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Scrambling Lily for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting of Scrambling Lily to experience its growth and beauty.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Scrambling Lily plant, well-draining soil, and a container or garden bed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure your soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy with good drainage. Containers should have holes for proper water flow.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the young plant into a prepared spot in the garden or a large pot.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Place it in partial sun to avoid direct heat.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full to partial sun, water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and mulch around the plant for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and shoots in late winter to encourage new growth. Harvest young leaves and shoots as needed for culinary use.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, neglecting to prune, and not providing enough support for its climbing nature.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesShoots
Edible uses: The Scrambling Lily's leaves and shoots are edible. They can be eaten raw or cooked, adding a mild flavor to salads or side dishes.
Other uses:FiberFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
12 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
12 native · 1 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 12 native· 1 introduced
Oceania3 regions
native (3)FijiNew CaledoniaVanuatu
Broader regions
native:Victoria, Bismarck Archipelago, Lesser Sunda Is., Maluku, New Guinea, New South Wales, Norfolk Is., Queensland, Solomon Is.
introduced:Jawa
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 58a57b0f-7fa4-4356-9680-e692a9d8b3d0
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