Skunk Vine
Paederia foetida
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Pl. 4ACC — Paederia foetida
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IOverview
Overview
Skunk Vine, scientifically known as Paederia foetida, is a vine and shrub native to regions including Andaman Islands, Assam, Bangladesh, Borneo, Cambodia, China (North-Central, South-Central, Southeast), East Himalaya, Hainan, India, Japan, and other parts of Asia. This plant thrives in moist environments with light to partial shade and is hardy in zones 6-12. It can grow up to 4 meters tall and is known for its edible leaves and stems, which are often used in local cuisines. The distinctive feature of Skunk Vine lies in its strong, unpleasant odor, a characteristic that has given it the name "Skunk Vine."
Quick answers
What is Skunk Vine?
Skunk Vine, scientifically known as Paederia foetida, is a vine and shrub native to regions including Andaman Islands, Assam, Bangladesh, Borneo, Cambodia, China (North-Central, South-Central, Southeast), East Himalaya, Hainan, India, Japan, and other parts of Asia.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Skunk Vine thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 6-12 and grows up to 4 meters tall as a vine or shrub. Propagate from cuttings or seeds. The edible parts include leaves and stems.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-12
Habit
Vine, Shrub
Mature size
4.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Skunk Vine for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, low-maintenance vine that can thrive in various conditions.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, potting soil, containers, and gardening gloves.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skunk Vine during spring when the weather is warm and stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining potting mix suitable for vines. Ensure your container has drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in containers, covering them lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist until germination.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and place the container in a partially shaded area to protect young plants.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Prune occasionally for shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune regularly to maintain size and encourage new growth. Harvest leaves and stems as needed for culinary use.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough support, neglecting pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesStem
Edible uses: The skunk vine is edible and its leaves and stems can be consumed. Typically, the young shoots and tender leaves are prepared by either cooking or drying. SKIP
Other uses:Essential OilFiberPest control
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Asia13 regions
native (13)BangladeshCambodiaChinaIndiaJapanLaosMyanmarNepalSouth KoreaSri LankaTaiwanThailandVietnam
Broader regions
native:South China Sea, Sulawesi, Sumatera, Andaman Is., Borneo, East Himalaya, Hainan, Jawa, Lesser Sunda Is., Malaya, Maluku, Nansei-shoto, Nicobar Is.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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