Sweet Tea Vine
Gynostemma pentaphyllumfam. Cucurbitaceae
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Pl. F79C — Gynostemma pentaphyllum
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IOverview
Overview
Sweet Tea Vine (Gynostemma pentaphyllum) is a perennial climbing plant native to regions including Assam, Bangladesh, and various parts of China, as well as Southeast Asia and East Himalaya. Known for its edible and medicinal properties, this vine thrives in full sun with moist soil that can range from light sandy to heavy clay. It grows up to 8 meters tall and is hardy in zones 7-10. The leaves are the primary edible part used by locals. Medicinal uses have also been documented for this versatile plant.
Quick answers
What is Sweet Tea Vine?
Sweet Tea Vine (Gynostemma pentaphyllum) is a perennial climbing plant native to regions including Assam, Bangladesh, and various parts of China, as well as Southeast Asia and East Himalaya.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Stress Relief
stresstincture
Used traditionally to soothe the mind and reduce anxiety.
Digestive Comfort
digestiondecoction
Traditionally used to aid digestion and soothe the stomach.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Sweet Tea Vine thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 7-10 and can grow up to 8 meters tall. For cultivation, it is best suited for perennials in temperate regions within its native range. Propagate through seeds or cuttings. Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Life cycle
Annual, Perennial
Mature size
8.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Sweet Tea Vine for the first time
8steps
Sweet Tea Vine is a hardy, easy-to-grow plant perfect for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, potting soil, a trellis or support structure.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost when temperatures are consistently above 10°C (50°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light, medium, or heavy texture. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost or directly sow outdoors in warm weather. Transplant young plants after danger of frost passes.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a sunny spot, ideally full sun for best growth.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide consistent moisture and light. Fertilize with a balanced plant food every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Train vines on a trellis as they grow.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to early spring to maintain shape and encourage new growth. Harvest leaves for tea when needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting support structures, not providing enough sunlight, and using the wrong type of fertilizer.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: Tea
Other uses:Cosmetic
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
27 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
27 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 27 native
Asia12 regions
native (12)BangladeshChinaIndiaJapanLaosMyanmarNepalPhilippinesSouth KoreaSri LankaThailandVietnam
Broader regions
native:Borneo, East Himalaya, Hainan, Jawa, Kuril Is., Malaya, Maluku, New Guinea, Sulawesi, Sumatera, West Himalaya, Lesser Sunda Is., Nansei-shoto
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Cucurbitaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Cucurbitaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
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