BBC Gardeners' World

Plant details

• Common Name: Chocolate vine
• Genus: Akebia
• Species: quinata
• Skill Level: experienced
• Exposure: full sun, partial shade
• Hardiness: tender
• Soil type: dry, well-drained/light
• Height: 10m
• Spread: 5m

An unusual climber, best grown in for warmer gardens since the flowers are prone to damage from late frosts. The maroon-chocolate flowers look almost artificial, with three thick, waxy 'petals' forming an inverted cup shape. These are clustered along the stems and have an exotic spicy fragrance with a hint of vanilla. They stand out against a background of light purple, three-lobed leaves, most colourful in full sun. In mild conditions the leaves last all winter but in cold areas expect them to be shed. After a particularly warm summer, large sausage-shaped fruit dangle enticingly from the stems.