Five-leaf akebia

Family Lardizabalaceae. Native range: Japan, south of Honshu, mountains of China.

The most ornamental species, a beautiful fast-growing semi-evergreen climber with lacy foliage, over 3 m tall. Shoots smooth, dull purple-maroon, leaves five-lobed, leathery. Small fragrant flowers open in April, monoecious, in short successive racemes.

Flowering time: April. In cultivation since 1860.

Position: sunny.

Care: needs supports and tying. Watering moderate, feeding during growth. Overwinters in cold greenhouses.

Pests, diseases: akebia is resistant to fungal diseases and has insecticidal properties.

Propagation: by semi-hardwood cuttings and layering in April - May

Uses: as an underplanting species. This climber provides light shade for gazebos or creates a decorative effect with a cascade of greenery on hedges. In its native region young akebia buds are steamed, dried and brewed as tea. Leaves and flowers are used as a seasoning for fish and vegetable dishes. Akebia vine is used to make baskets, tents, trellises, and the flowers are used as material for bouquets.

based on materials from the website www.flower.onego.ru