Akebia x pentaphylla

Akebia pentaphylla is a  climbing plant, which is very unique. In spring, curious and round clusters of small flowers appear, in a beautiful deep red colour. This flowering is fragrant. The stunning foliage can be semi-evergreen in mild climates. With fast growth, this climber quickly covers a trellis or a tree. It is moderately hardy but undemanding and easy to grow in any good garden soil.

The genus Akebia belongs to the family of Lardizabalaceae. A. pentaphylla is a natural hybrid resulting from the spontaneous cross-breeding between two species native to Japan. It exhibits intermediate characteristics between its parents. Its hardiness is not as good as that of A. quinata, but  superior to that of A. trifoliata. Reaching adulthood in three years, it quickly forms  a 6m (20ft) climber in all directions. Its lush and decorative foliage is composed of light green leaves, almost evergreen in mild climates. In colder regions, it is completely deciduous. Flowering occurs in April-May, in the form of small pendulous clusters composed of flowers which are 5 to 7cm (2 to 3in) in diameter, dark purple-red and of a curious shape. The flowers are either male or female, but both sexes are present on the same plant. The white fruit, not very tasty but edible, weighs from 50 to 100 grams and measures from 10 to 15cm (4 to 6in) in length and 3 to 5cm (1 to 2in) in diameter. Fruiting is improved by the presence of another pollinator. Its white flesh contains numerous seeds.

Akebia pentaphylla can be trained on a trellis, on a wall with wires, on a dead tree or on a pergola. It can be useful to hide an unsightly shed or garage. Its mature growth covers an area of 6 to 8m². It is undemanding in terms of soil, as long as it is light and not too dry, and it tolerates all exposures.