Akebia quinata

A vigorous and semi-evergreen climber, Akebia quinata has lovely lush green leaves and clusters of small trailing, chocolate-purple flowers in spring. These colourful flowers are followed by dark-purple, sausage-like fruits after long hot summers. Akebia quinata is an unusual and charming climbing plant. best in sun or dappled shade.

As a semi-evergreen plant it may keep all its leaves in a mild winter but after a cold snap or severe winter, you may see some purple bruising on the leaves or they may fall altogether. This is nothing to worry about, fresh leaves will emerge the following Spring and it will continue to grow as normal.

• Position: Full sun or partial shade.
• Soil: Moist yet well drained, fertile soil.
• Hardiness: Hardy. Akebia quinata is semi-evergreen and in cold winters may develop purple bruising on the leaves or possibly drop the leaves altogether.
• Flowering Period: April - May.
• Flower Colour: Dark purple
• Rate of Growth: Vigorous.
• Habit: Akebia quinata grows to be a medium sized or eventually large climbing plant which requires support as it will not self-cling.
  • Height: 6 m (20 ft)
  • Spread: 2 m (6 ft)

• Notes: Akebia quinata is ideal for climbing up trellis or supporting wires on a wall or fence.